Irish Country Sports and Country Life Summer 2012

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Volume 11 Number 2 Summer 2012 £3.00 / €5.00

COUNTRY SPORTS and COUNTRY LIFE

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9 771476 824001

www.countrysportsandcountrylife.com

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Cover: From the Great Game Fairs of Ireland’s painting of ‘The Massereene Hound’

by John Moore

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Contents

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ROI Comment

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Northern Comment

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Countryside News

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CAI News

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A History of Barbour – an iconic country sports brand

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The Sun shines on Ballywalter

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Stephen Smyth shows off his Lancasters

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Johnny Woodlock looks at thermal imaging

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Frank Brophy goes wild boar hunting

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Margaret McStay joins ICS&CL to look at terriers & lurchers

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Obituary Colonel BD Cotton

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RISE emerges again 83

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Looking forward to the 50th & 51st Great Game Fairs of Ireland

Country Chat with Billy Lewis

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Hugh Brady profiles Derek Watkins

Emma Cowan previews the Flavour Fine Food Festival

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Plus Two’s and Purdey’s Cure

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The Massereene Hound

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Hunting Roundup with Tom Fulton

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John Malone profiles Liam Briody

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Derek Fanning goes ‘Helter Skelter’

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The Dublin Gun trade c 1796

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Simon Everett goes on an ‘Early morning foray’

102 FISSTA News & Views

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Graham Cox looks at ‘Putting on the Style’ Frank Brophy looks at the Republic’s firearms legislation Dan Kinney reflects on some characters

108 Lough Sheelin Strikes Back 110 The Reluctant Fisherwoman 114 Sweating the small stuff with Andrew Griffiths 117 Simon Everett ‘Brings home the woodies’ 121 AJ’s Angst

Managing Editor: Albert Titterington, ROI Editor: Philip Lawton, NI Editor: Paul Pringle, Associate Editor: Irene Titterington Sales and Marketing: Paul Robinson Publishers: Country Lifestyle Exhibitions Ltd. Cranley Hill, 5b Woodgrange Road, Hollymount , Downpatrick BT30 8JE Tel: (028) (from ROI 048) 44839167 Email: countrysportsandcountrylife@btinternet.com a.j.titterington@btinternet.com

URL http://www.countrysportsandcountrylife.com

ROI Office (Editorial and Advertising) Philip Lawton Contact: Tel: (01) 8348279 / 087 2472006 Email: lawtonICS@hotmail.com Printed by W.&G.Baird Distributed by Easons (Dublin), E M Distribution Also Available by Subscription ISSN No. 1476-8240 The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or the publishers. Whilst every care is taken to ensure that information published is accurate and reliable, the publishers cannot be held responsible or accept liability for any errors or omissions in this pubication. ALL RIGHTS ARE RESERVED. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written consent of the owner. No liability is accepted for the safe custody of unsolicited materials and manuscripts. Publication of accepted articles is not always guaranteed and the publishers will not be held liable for any manuscripts, photographs or other materials lost or damaged while in their possession, although every care will be taken. The editor reserves the right to amend any such articles as necessary.

Published in association with Ireland’s country sports and country living web portal http://www.countrysportsandcountrylife.com

RoI Comment

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he game fair season is underway again and Ballywalter was a good start to the 2012 Great Game Fairs of Ireland with more good shows to come at Shane’s Castle and Birr. The support of local politicians as well as the fieldsports community make such shows possible and provide an opportunity to show our traditions to a wider public. We are fortunate in Ireland to have maintained so many of our traditions, but we need to work hard if we are to ensure that these are not chipped away by those who have a very different idea of the way the world should be. Sadly it is as difficult as ever to convince a largely urban public of the value of fieldsports and we all need to promote these values whenever and wherever we can.

RISE RISE has been born again and it is needed more than ever, despite a new government in the Republic who made a number of promises before they were elected.

The Green Party may have disappeared from national politics but many of their anti fieldsports plans are still in existence and have not been put on the rubbish heap as they should have been by now. The Ward Union Stag Hounds are still dealing with an impossible situation created by the last government and it is about time that this was sorted out. What has happened to the Ward Union Stag Hounds and their traditional hunting should be a warning to us all, especially those who value the traditions we have held dear for so long.

I urge all hunters, shooters, anglers and anyone else involved in either fieldsports or the countryside to support RISE as it is essential that we do not lose this opportunity to get our point across.

Firearms licensing Towards the end of this year, many shooters will have 4

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

to renew their firearms licences and this will be the first time since the unmitigated mess shooters went through when the new three year licensing system was introduced.

Hopefully, some common-sense will appear this time and we won’t find ourselves struggling through page after page of application forms. There has been more than enough money wasted by the authorities in failed court cases, apart from the amount of time and effort which it has cost both shooters and their organisations in dealing with these unnecessary legal actions. There are still some cases being processed and I hope and trust they will be decided in favour of the shooters just as the previous ones have. It is to be hoped that the authorities will have learned from the experience and not repeat this waste of taxpayers money.

Fishing safety Fishing is improving with warmer weather and many of you will be taking to the water in the next few weeks with the expectation of perhaps finally bagging that special fish. Please remember to stay safe or, as my mother used to say, try to stay out of harm’s way. A life jacket used as a seat cushion won’t do much for you in a sudden emergency and oars are not just poles for pushing you away from the shore. I have heard all the excuses about how cumbersome life jackets can be, but they are easier to wear than a body bag!

Tight lines to all our angling readers and enjoy the summer - and what better way than coming to the Great Game Fairs of Ireland at Shane’s Castle and Birr Castle Demesne where you will see what real game fairs are.

Philip Lawton ROI Editor

Country Sports and Country LIfe Comment

According to Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill the gate to plate supply chain is a key ingredient for economic growth and that creating awareness of locally produced food and developing support for local farmers is key to providing a quality home-grown culinary experience for local consumers and tourists alike.

And she added that this sector is recognised as a key driver to future economic prosperity here and it is important to highlight the strong links in our local agri-food supply chain to buyers so that they can understand and experience the provenance and quality of the product available to them. The Minister was speaking at a major exhibition in Belfast where she praised the high quality local produce on display. Chefs came in for praise as well by creating culinary delights from these excellent raw materials.

That got me thinking about campaigns such as the Great Game Fairs’ ‘Go for Game‘ which highlights how game is the finest free range produce available and how to cook it, bringing the whole concept of eating game to a wider audience, many of whom simply do not know how good game is and have never tried it before. The spin off, apart from the healthy eating aspect of such delicious fare, is that local shoots will have a better market for their game and deer farming gets a boost as well. If you want to learn more about game cookery you might like to come along to the Irish Game Fair at Shanes Castle on 7th and 8th July to find out more and see top chef Emmett McCourt demonstrate how simple it is to produce a mouthwatering game dish.

Lead Shot - again!

Many of our readers contacted us following the announcement that the ECHA had asked for data on the manufacture, cost and use of lead shot and alternatives, with Europe-wide responses to be collated by the European umbrella organisation FACE. Understandably, readers are becoming increasingly alarmed at what they see as the continuing journey down the road to an outright ban, so I asked LAG’s Chairman John Swift for his comments.

John Swift said: “LAG’s remit is confined to England and governed by our DEFRA terms of reference, the ECHA process is at EU level and governed by the EU REACH regulations. The two processes are separate. ECHA has no obligation to have regard for LAG but it could well be that LAG’s findings will be of interest and significance to ECHA. Potential effects in many ways but that has to be in realm of speculation.

If of course ECHA is minded to opt for a complete restriction on lead in ammunition then LAG’s work would be redundant – but that is not the case at the moment. The minutes of the last LAG meeting in April are available on the LAG website and they set out where we are and what the next steps are.

Our next report is currently scheduled for next April.

There are two key drivers – first is that the ECHA process is an industry lead process driven by regulations that industries have to satisfy - and what the ammunition trade says will therefore be hugely important in determining ECHA’s proposals later this year. Secondly a key EU pressure point is the inaction by some Member States to ban the use of lead shot for shooting over wetlands – or to ensure that if they have the law is effective. EU is committed to this goal under AEWA and it is undoubtedly forcing the pace. If the wetlands restriction is not applied or does not work (effectively) the argument for a complete ban will appear to decision makers to be unavoidable.”

Irish Country Sports & Country Life will continue to monitor any developments.

grocers recently, the young checkout operator suggested I should bring my own grocery bags because plastic bags weren't good for the environment. I apologised and said: "We didn't have this green thing back in our day." She said, "That's our problem today. Your generation didn't care enough to save the environment for future generations." She was right, our generation didn't have the green thing back then.

So what did we have? After some reflection here's what I remembered. Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the shop, which sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilised and refilled, so it could use the same bottles time after time recycled. But we didn't have the green thing back in our day.

We walked up stairs, because we didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. We walked to the shop and didn't climb into a car every time we had to go 100 yards. But she was right. We didn't have the green thing in our day.

Back then, we washed the baby's nappies because we didn't have the throwaway kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an electric tumble-drier wind and solar power. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not brand-new. But that young lady is right. We didn't have the green thing back in our day.

Back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house -- not in every room. And the TV had a small screen, not a screen the size of a tablecloth. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand because we didn't have electrical machines to do it for us. When we packed a fragile item to send by post, we used old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. Back then, we didn't fire up an engine, burn petrol or plug in just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower which ran on human power. We exercised by working so we didn't need to go to a health club to use electric treadmills. But she's right.

We didn't have the green thing back then.

We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled pens with ink instead of buying a new one, and we replaced our razor blades instead of throwing away the whole thing when the blade got dull. But we didn't have the green thing back then.

People took the bus, and kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of using Mum’s 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn't have a computerised gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint. We didn't have the green thing back then.’

I thought is that not similar in a way to our situation as hunters, shooters and anglers? For more years that we remember, we have looked after the countryside. We made sure that rivers and lakes were as pollution free as possible. We bred from animals that were best suited to carry out their task not just a predetermined shape dreamt up by some organisation. We treated nature with care. What we harvested was sustainable. We improved where we could. We tried to make sure what we did was in tune with nature rather than seeing nature merely as a resource to be utilised with little or no thought for long term environmental consequences. Think ocean turbines, wind farms, and fish farms for starters. Conservation impact of things like these? You judge. Then think about the local angling or shooting clubs and what they do with limited resources but boundless enthusiasm. No contest in my opinion.

As the late John Beech so rightly said: “The fieldsports community are the original greens.’ To which I would add - even before we ‘had the green thing.’

We didn’t have the ‘green’ thing back then I noticed something recently on the social media which really struck a chord. Someone had written along the following lines: ‘Shopping at the

Paul Pringle Northern Editor Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Dobbs Shoot Raises a whopping £2000 for charity

Celebrations at Castle Dobbs when the Beaters and Pickers Up reach their £2000 fundraising target. nce again the beaters, pickers up and visiting guns raised the sum of £2000 for the NI Cancer Fund for Children and Action Cancer. This make it the third year in a row that these charities have benefited from the

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fundraising that happens on shoot days when everyone is encouraged to dig deep for such a worthy cause.

Prizes up for grabs each day ranged from hand crafted sticks to ‘something to

take for medicinal purposes’ to wildlife paintings - all contributed by the people themselves. Other top prizes included fine dining at Knockagh Lodge and the Merchants Hotel.

Irish International Fly Fair, Killyleagh, 30th June & 1st July 2012 Wild Deer Association AGM amian Hannigan writes that the 31st Annual General Meeting of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland will be held on Saturday June 16th 2012 at 7.30pm sharp in the Kilcoran Lodge Hotel, Cahir, Co. Tipperary you can contact the hotel on 052 7441288 for accommodation, don’t forget to ask for our preferential rate. The committee would ask all members to attend, as there are many important issues to discuss.

Agenda: Minutes of the previous A.G.M./ Matters Arising Chairperson/Secretary/ Treasurer/ P.R.O. Reports Election of Officers/Committee Any Other Business Following the AGM the Kilcoran Lodge chefs will serve a venison banquette, family members are also welcome. In conjunction with the AGM our annual Trophy Head competition will be held, categories have been extended to now include - Best Fallow – Best Sika – Best Red - Most Unusual - Best Overall and best Non Native Species. All heads must be presented for judging by no later than 7pm, while all heads can be displayed only heads taken in the 2011/12 season can be entered in the competition. In memory of our former Chairman John Creedon, we will also present the John Creedon Memorial Award for Wildlife Photography sponsored by Countryside Alliance Ireland.

(Competition rules and further details to follow.) A number of exhibitors will also be attending including a large display of discounted Deer Stalking equipment, with all profits going to the association.

For more information please contact: Wild Deer Association of Ireland, PO Box 31 Midleton, Co. Cork 087 2496987 or visit www.wilddeerireland.com

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he Irish International Fly Fair 2012 hosted by the Dibney River Conservation Trust will again be held in Killyleagh Co Down NI. The ethos of the Fair is to highlight the Trusts attempts to restore the infrastructure of Dibney River that flows through the village of Killyleagh. The Dibney is an important natural spawning stream for Strangford Loughs sea trout population and also supports a habitat for kingfishers, otters and brown trout.

The strength of this Fair is that it is held throughout the village, including the impressive Killyleagh Castle. The main venue for the tyers, 35+ in number and some of the best in the world, coming from Bulgaria, Sweden, France, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, Scotland & England, is in what was part of the Ulster Bank in Killyleagh and now converted to a banqueting hall, a truly unique experience.

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COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Jack Murphy’s Spring Summer 2012 collection ideal whatever the weather ith the long summer days and lazy evenings, we start to put away those heavy winter coats and thermal layers and enjoy the simplicity that this season has to offer. However, whilst we may dream of a summer of blistering sunshine, here in Ireland we all know the weather can change at the drop of a hat.

But Irish Country Clothing brand Jack Murphy ensures that, come rain or shine, their Spring Summer 2012 collection has you covered, offering a range of elegant summer waxes, classic country quilts and an array of colourful lightweight rainwear, as well as a multitude of vibrant polo shirts, rugby shirts and accessories. So whatever the weather you can be sure that Jack Murphy will provide you with a winning combination of reliable product features fused with understated style.

For a sunny day spent relaxing, the Jack Murphy pure cotton relaxed fit Daithi Men’s The Eamonn men's jacket in Heritage Green Rugby Shirt bridges the gap between style For those picture perfect afternoons spent in the sun, the Clodagh, and comfort, available in the striking Royal Navy Stripe or bold a pure cotton ladies shirt available in an array of patterns and checks, Patchwork design. And the Eamonn Men’s Jacket provides a can be dressed up for an afternoon with friends or dressed down for contemporary twist on a country classic, perfect for an early morning time spent relaxing in the garden. walk with the dogs, or keeping the elements at bay at a summer To top off any outfit, Jack Murphy offers a range of hats to suit all. barbeque when the sun starts to fade.

For more information visit www.jackmurphy.ie

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Skinners Win Gundog Product of the Year at IPC Shooting Industry Awards 2012 kinner’s were successful with their Field & Trial Turkey & Rice dog food in the 2012 IPC Shooting Industry Awards.

Launched in February 2011, Field & Trial Turkey & Rice is the only dog food to contain the branded mobility supplement joint aid for dogs, enabling owners to provide this high quality supplement in one complete feed at a daily maintenance level.

The food is aimed at working dogs who regularly take part in trialling, tests and picking-up as well as other fast paced or demanding sports and activities such as agility, flyball

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and racing. All of these activities can put strain on joints and muscles and joint aid for dogs provides complementary nutritional support which can help to maintain healthy digestion and freedom of movement as it aids the normal anti-inflammatory actions of the dogs’ metabolism.

The food is completely hypoallergenic free, with no artificial additives, flavourings or preservatives and has been specially formulated to be sensitive on a dog’s digestion as a valuable source of energy and to maintain a healthy coat condition.

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Please complete DCAL Questionnaire says ‘No Salmon Nets” o Salmon Nets would like to remind everyone who has a love for nature and all things in it, that the long awaited consultation process has begun. These nets were intercepting salmon which were destined for rivers all around Ireland and parts of the U.K. Our campaign managed to keep the nets off for the 2012 season and we need everyone to do their bit by filling this online questionnaire to ensure they stay off in the near future with the proper legislation in place.

The significance of this consultation cannot be underestimated given the serious decline in the numbers of wild atlantic salmon returning to our shores.

Every man, woman and child should take this opportunity to fill in the short questionnaire online. It will only take five minutes but will have a lasting legacy for future generations.

A few hard years of conservation measures now will afford an opportunity to the province of becoming an important destination for recreational anglers and tourists and give our struggling economy a much needed boost.

Please follow the link www.dcalni.gov.uk/salmon_conservation_consultation And, if anyone requires any guidance on what way to answer the questions, please feel free to ask on the No Salmon Nets Facebook page. Please follow the link www.facebook.com/nosalmonnets.

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COUNTRYSIDE NEWS IRISH COMPANY FIRST IN WORLD TO RECEIVE LICENCE TO IMPORT HORSE FEED INTO CHINA rish animal feed company, Connolly’s RED MILLS, has become the first in the world to secure a licence to import horse feed into mainland China. The Department of Agriculture, in April, signed the agreement for the animal feed licence with Chinese officials in Beijing during the Agri Services Trade Mission to China being led by Minister for Agriculture, Food and The Marine, Simon Coveney TD. The deal – which is potentially worth several million euros - gives first mover advantage to the Co Kilkenny-based company which now becomes the first and only foreign feed company to be licensed for the import of horse feeds into mainland China.

Connolly’s Red Mills horse feeds are already well known to many of the leading stables in the world. Over one hundred group one, Connolly’s RED MILLS grade one, or grand prix events have been import licence. won by horses fueled by their products in the last season. “We embarked on the Chinese registration process in 2007 and are delighted to see it come to fruition today. Although the Chinese horse market is still emerging, there is considerable potential and advantage for us by being first past the post,” according to Connolly’s RED MILLS Managing Director, Joe Connolly.

The family owned company, which has been in business over 100 years, has a strong presence in Asia. It is established in six Asian markets since it started exporting to Japan in 2006. China now becomes Connolly’s RED MILLS’s 37th export market globally. According to Joe Connolly, the Chinese want to be at a global standard not just economically, but also in sport. “The demand for world class services for sports horses is growing in China. RED MILLS, as a supplier to many of the top stables in the world, can now offer the Chinese horse owner the most advanced performance nutrition and quality standards; particularly for anti-doping controls and product shelf-life.”

RED MILLS’ success in becoming the first foreign feed to sell into

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met with Chinese officials in Beijing to secure their ‘world first’ China will help the Irish horse industry in its drive to become a supplier of top horses and horse related products into the country, which has a population of almost 1.3 billion and is expected to become the world’s biggest economy by 2020. The one hundred million Euro group employs 200 people at its plant in Goresbridge and at export offices around the world including the UK, Sweden, France, Japan and Malaysia.

“This is what makes us a world leader in horse feed and this significant step into the Chinese market is something we are very excited about,” said Joe Connolly. While betting on racing is still not allowed in China, nevertheless over US$2.5B has been invested in race tracks all over the country in the last ten years.“It is very difficult to estimate the value of this business, but the potential for RED MILLS as first mover could be very significant,” commented Joe Connolly. He added: “We owe a great debt of gratitude to the officers of the Irish Department of Agriculture, Enterprise Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs who have helped us across the line.”

FTCh Creg Rena, Int. FTCh Ballydavid Aodh, Int. FTCh Remkilens T-Ebba, Int. FTCh Ballydavid Airforce and FTCh Creg Jake

ood news from the Hugh Brady Kennel that of the five Red Setters, three are International FTChs something that we believe is pretty unique in the sport. The other two dogs are FTChs in Ireland. Readers may recall that he wrote an article for Irish Country Sports & Country Life about whelping puppies from the imported Swedish dog T-Ebba, who went on to amass 14 Open Stake wins - a record for a female and joint best number of wins for a Red Setter with Mountlake Banner. Well, two of those pups Ballydavid Airforce and Ballydavid Aodh, as well as T-Ebba, are now Champions both in Ireland and GB. Between the three dogs, they have won over 30 Open trials despite Hugh not having ever competed in the UK. As Hugh says, “They were naturally gifted and I would not credit my training at all but I’m delighted it was me that got them.”

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Curlew Survey urlew numbers in Ireland have rapidly declined over the past number of years and it has been reported that there may be as few as 200 breeding pairs left throughout the country. This is in stark contrast to the last Breeding Atlas (1988-1991) where the Irish population was estimated at around 5,000 pairs.

As a proactive conservation force, the Irish Red Grouse Association (IRGA) is assisting Birdwatch Ireland and calling for all country sports enthusiasts to be vigilant and to report any sightings of curlew to them in order that they may gauge and monitor the populations in each county. At present the IRGA are focussing mainly on the Monaghan, Cavan and Leitrim areas.

If you would like to be a part of the survey, please forward any useful information or sightings to Vincent Flannery at nessa.od@hotmail.com or contact Vincent on +353 (0) 87 612 2568.

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COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Anglers raise £400 for Children’s Heartbeat Trust

Fergal Diamond from the Moyola Angling Association presents Ian Rowan from Willowbreeze Fly Fishing Club with a cheque for £400 for the Children’s heartbeat foundation. hilip Maguire writes that a fishing competition on the Moyola River on sat 19th May raised £400 for the Children’s Heartbeat Trust.This was a tremendous success for the event which was a joint venture with Willowbreeze and Moyola angling clubs.

In the junior section 1st place went to Jonh McKay 2nd was Eithan Steele. Bait section 1st was Barry Diamond and 2nd Philip Maguire. In the Fly section 1st was Seamus Donnelly while 2nd went to Tommy McGrath. Heaviest fish on the day went To Philip Maguire.

The organisers would like to thank all the people who donated prizes on the day and to Castledawson school which also gave a cheque for £100 to Ian Rowan for the Children’s Heartbeat Trust.

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Launch of book on Ireland’s smallest plants ome of Ireland’s smallest – but most important plants – are the subject of a new publication launched today in Dublin. The publication entitled “Rare and Threatened Bryophytes of Ireland”, was launched by Government Ministers Alex Attwood MLA, Minister for the Environment and Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Bryophytes are non-flowering plants which grow in places where moisture is present. Comprising mosses and liverworts, these typically small species are important components of many of Ireland’s internationally recognised habitats such as blanket bogs.

With over 800 species, Ireland is one of the most important areas of Europe for bryophytes which also make a significant contribution to the island’s green appearance. The book focuses on rare and threatened species of bryophytes and gives information on threats and conservation priorities. It is the latest all-Ireland Red Data Book to be jointly published since the first in 1988.

Speaking at the launch in the appropriate surroundings of Glasnevin Botanical Gardens, Minister Attwood said: “This book is the culmination of over 15 years of extensive field research which resulted in many finds of rare species including 22 previously unknown in Ireland. Its publication by National Museums Northern Ireland illustrates the benefits of cross-border cooperation and places the spotlight on an important but neglected part of Irish biodiversity for which we have special responsibility.” Minister Deenihan added “I am particularly pleased that this publication contains the first Red List of bryophytes for all of Ireland. This is an important step, fulfilling one of the fundamental commitments under ‘Actions for Biodiversity’ - Ireland’s National Biodiversity Plan and contributing to international objectives in conservation. This book is undoubtedly a landmark in Irish bryology and the National Museums Northern Ireland are to be congratulated on another fine publication, to sit well with their previous works on ”Dragonflies, Butterflies and Moths” and the recently published “Natural History of Ulster.”

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Agriculture Minister O’Neill meets with Fermanagh Fracking Awareness Network griculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle O’Neill has met with representatives from the Fermanagh Fracking Awareness Network (FFAN) which is a network of Fermanagh residents who are concerned about the risks from the process of hydraulic fracturing to extract gas.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister O’Neill said: “I welcome this opportunity to meet with the FFAN to hear its views on hydraulic fracturing. There are concerns that hydraulic fracturing may cause water pollution, seismic problems, visual issues, and may have an impact on the agricultural and tourism industries. Whilst my Department has no legislative role in the process of approving gas exploration, it would be a consultee in the planning process should any application be made to drill. I believe these concerns would all need to be addressed in the planning process. The Network raised with me concerns about the potential impact on rural tourism, the environment and rural communities. I share some of these concerns and these issues need to be seriously considered by all Government Departments.”

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Children from Castledawson Primary School presenting the cheque for £100.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Gilford Castle Simulated Game Shooting

Charlie Rogan gets in to the action. ary Davison has drawn our attention to the superb simulated game shooting which is available at one of the top shoots in the country, Gilford Castle. As readers may remember, this fabulous shoot was named Irish Country Sports and Country Life magazine’s Shoot of the Year in 2010.

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Clays are positioned to suit each of the drives.

Gary says: “Located on the dramatic slopes of the Bann valley, Gilford Castle estate produces fantastic driven pheasant shooting. The same drives are now available for simulated game clay pigeon shooting, an exhilarating alternative to driven shooting for the summer months.

Simulated game days feature: Teams of 16 guns, Five Drives, 4000 clays, Three course lunch in Gilford Castle, Refreshments between drives, Ear and eye protection provided.

Describing a typical day’s fun Gary says: “The day begins with guns meeting at Gilford Castle for tea, coffee and a quick safety briefing.

After drawing pegs, they move to the first of five drives. The drives are varied and exciting, using the steep banks of the River Bann to present high birds simulating driven pheasant. Lunch is provided in the magnificent setting of Gilford Castle, before shooting continues in the afternoon. The day ends with a simulated driven grouse drive, with guns shooting from grouse butts.”

The cost of the day is £150 per gun and arrangements can also be made for smaller teams of guns. For more information, or to book a day’s simulated game shooting, please contact Gary on 07769 613019.

You can also check out the video of Gilford Castle’s driven pheasant shoot on youtube.com.

OPEN RANGE DAY TO TEST THE BEST WAROVSKI OPTIK, SAUER AND RUAG are hosting an Open Day to test the new Z61 - 2nd generation scopes and Sauer rifles at the Rifle Range, Baronscourt Estate, Cashety Road, Baronscourt, Co Tyrone BT78 4HQ on 11th Augyst From10.00 16.00.

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A choice of SWAROVSKI scopes mounted on SAUER rifles will be available to test on the range.

NORMA and RWS ammunition will be supplied free of charge by RUAG and the event is supported by Young Guns and company representatives will be on hand

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

for questions.

For further information call Mervyn Young on 028 7946 8375 OR 07989 758120. Entry is free but anyone intending to shoot must register by contacting Mervyn at least three days before the event to comply with the law.

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SWAROVSKI U.K. LTD. Perrywood Business Park, Salfords Surrey RH1 5JQ Tel. 01737-856812 facebook.com/swarovskioptik

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BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II SWAROVSKI OPTIK SUPPLIER OF BINOCULARS

09.05.12 14:45

COUNTRYSIDE NEWS ‘Get it On! Keep it On’ W

ould you jump into your car with your fishing rods loaded and drive without a seat belt? Probably not. Equally would you risk going fishing on the water or on the shoreline without a lifejacket? With the summer arriving and more people heading to the water, the Irish Coast Guard have launched a Lifejacket awareness campaign ‘Get it On! Keep it On’.

The focus is on people fishing from the shoreline and on small fishing boats on Irish waters including lakes, rivers and seas. While it’s mandatory for those fishing on small boats to have their lifejacket on, it’s not for those fishing from land - but it is highly recommended.

The availability of compact self inflating lifejackets ensure little or no impact on the ability to maintain your flexibility and still enjoy a day’s fishing from the shoreline. Importantly when you do need it, the lifejacket will inflate and keep the user afloat until help arrives. It is equally important to keep this critical piece of lifesaving equipment well maintained.

If you need to ring 999 for a water/ beach/ cliff related emergency it is important to ask for the Coast Guard and state clearly your location and if possible use the GPS co-ordinates on your phone.

Six Mile Water News

ichael Martin of the Six Mile Water River Trust writes that considering the fighting that has been done over this little part of the country I find it incredible that the beautiful countryside of Northern Ireland has been allowed to be ravaged by pollution, modern farming practice, drainage and development. Our government agencies charged with protecting the environment had been historically underfunded, under resourced and inefficient.

If we are to preserve the remnants of the natural environment that still exist then all those who care will have to stand together, put aside differences of opinion and focus on the greater goal, to protect our precious environmental heritage. Previously Non Government Agencies have been a resource overlooked by government but as we become better organised and informed I believe that we can face the challenges by combining local knowledge and skills with government policy.

The EEC Water Framework Directive for example is an ideal opportunity for collaboration between government and stakeholders to work together to improve our rivers, lakes & streams and associated wildlife habitats.

We can’t expect to sit back and let others do the job of managing

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the countryside and wildlife, now it’s time to step up to the mark, conservation is conservation whether it’s done by angling clubs, birdwatchers, farmers, gun clubs, wildlife trusts or government agencies. Only by uniting all the elements of the countryside recreation and conservation and engaging with government can we become a formidable force against those who would exploit and destroy the natural heritage which we value so much, the beautiful Northern Ireland countryside.

Life Size Animal Sculptures from Jason Hale isitors to Ballywalter will have seen some excellent sculptures from Jason Hale.They were so good that we purchased the Salmon to decorate our Angling Village at Shanes Castle.

For further information Email:jchale@hotmail.co.uk

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Deer Hunting in Ireland DVD (Part 2) is now available

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avid Dunne’s latest DVD is now available! Damien Hannigan, Secretary of the Wild Deer Association of Ireland writes that this edition contains stalking of Roe, Muntjac, Red, Fallow, Sika Deer and wild Goat and there are also tips on Firearm selection & maintenance, knife sharpening etc. There are a number of guest stalkers including Nick Latus from Sporting Rifle Shooting Magazine.

If you would like to order this DVD now call 086-3325297 or e-mail lenkadunne@yahoo.ie, the DVD cost €20 with 60% of all profits from each sale going to the Wild Deer Association of Ireland, in recognition of the great work the association does in preserving the sport of deer stalking and our deer herds.

IS NOW HERE. Class leading fuel economy* Class leading emissions* Best in class ground clearance* Lightest in its class* Best in Class 5-star Euro NCAP Safety score**

Seven airbags for superior all round protection Automatic front passenger seat airbag activation Comes with complimentary Subaru ETC° aftercare

Best in Class child protection and safety assist**

The new Subaru XV moves crossovers to the next level and promises to offer an enhanced driving experience that’s different to other crossovers. Stylish and distinctly urban, the new XV has caused a storm of its own, and not just because of its good looks.

To experience the new XV for yourself call in or call us today.

ONLY ONE WAY TO FIND OUT. CALL IN OR CALL US TODAY Moira Road Lisburn Tel: (028) 9262 1293 www.eastwoodmotors.com *XV class consists of four wheel drive, 2.0 diesel equivalent versions of Audi Q3 (177ps), BMW X1 (143ps), Ford Kuga (140ps), Hyundai ix35 (136ps), Kia Sportage(136ps), Mitsubishi ASX (150ps), Nissan Qashqai (150ps), Skoda Yeti (140ps) and VW Tiguan (140ps). Please note the preceding differences in maximum power (“ps”). Figures correct at time of going to press and have been based on our competitors’ published figures. **In its 2011 Euro NCAP test, the Subaru XV scored 86% for adult protection, 90% for child protection,64% for pedestrian protection and 86% for safety assistance generating a combined score of 326%. Euro NCAP data taken from www.euroncap.com –13th December 2011.

Subaru XV range fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km): Urban from 32.1 (8.8) to 41.5 (6.8). Extra urban from 47.9 (5.9) to 56.5 (5.0). Combined from 40.9 (6.9) to 50.4 (5.6).

CO2 emissions from 160 to 146 (g/km).

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Ferbane Street , Cloghan, Offaly Tel e 09064-57104 PEUGEOT PEUGEO T 50 508 8 Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Finance is generally provided by way of a hire purchase agreement. The credit provider is Bank of Ireland Finance which is a registered trading name of Bank of Ireland. †Excludes delivery & related charges. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. Price correct at time of print. Combined fuel consumption (l/100 km): from 4.4 to 5.7. CO2 emissions (g/km): from 115 to 149. Terms and conditions apply. At participating dealers only.

COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Fundraising Men’s Day raises over £1300 for Action Cancer

Centre Left to right: Ruth Jennett, Community Appeals Assistant, Action Cancer and Aubrene Willis, Treasurer of Markethill Cancer Group alongside all the participants during the ‘Men’s Day’ at Lisnalea Rod & Gun Club who raised funds for Action Cancer. n April, Aubrene Willis, member of Lisnalea Rod & Gun Club and treasurer of the Markethill Cancer Group and Chris McElroy, Club Secretary, organised a successful Men’s Day to raise awareness of Prostate Cancer in Northern Ireland in advance of Action Cancer’s Action Man Campaign. The charity would like to especially acknowledge and thank Aubrene who over the past forty years has raised over £100,000 for Action Cancer.

The event, held at Lisnalea Rod & Gun Club, had forty participants from all over Ireland who took part in a range of disciplines which included air rifle shooting,

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pistol, laser, clay pigeon, archery and fly casting. Thirty of the club members also helped on the day.

The organisers would like to thank everyone who took part and supported the event which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

A special thanks also goes to the following people: Terry Woods, Range Conducting Officer in charge of safety , Mervyn Willis, Chairman of Lisnalea Gun Club and the following sponsors of the event: NC Engineering, Dumfries Freight, Millers Hill Equestrian, Gosford Equipment & Gosford Carting, Alan Spear’s Bodyshop, Steven Qua

Transport, Armagh Oil, Steven Sands (Farmer) and an anonymous sponsor.

Overall winner with the highest score was Glen McGall.

Group winners: Group 1: Ciaran McAlinden Group 2: Geoffrey L. Hodgett Group 3: Alexander Dale Group 4: Cormac McCarthy Group 5: Simon Trimble Group 6: Marcus Watt Group 7: Glen McGall For information about Action Cancer please visit www.actioncancer.org

School’s ‘salmon-in-the-classroom’ project highlights Lodge Burn improvements ne hundred salmon fry have been released into the Lodge Burn at Coleraine as part of a major Rivers Agency environmental improvement scheme. Pupils from Millburn Primary School released the tiny fish into the river which runs through the town after rearing them from eggs in their classroom. The project is part of flood alleviation work on the Lodge Burn which is nearing completion. As well as providing new flood defences for local residents, the work will significantly improve the physical condition of the river and the movement of migratory fish.

Dr Gareth Greer, Conservation Officer with the Rivers Agency has been instrumental in developing the environmental project. He said: “The Lodge Burn, being close to the River Bann and Atlantic Ocean, has historically supported a good population of salmon and trout.

However, over time through catchment development and pressures on water quality, there has been a severe negative impact on migratory fish. Weirs and culverts have limited the movement of fish throughout the catchment, while periodic pollution events have also had a devastating impact. But the flood defence scheme provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reverse some of these

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

impacts through changes to the physical structure of the river.”

The work involved the removal of two weirs which were forming a pond in Anderson Park and restoration of the natural river channel which recreates the type of habitat that is beneficial for small fish. Pipes were removed from under the Coleraine Leisure Centre car park and replaced with a large box culvert with a natural stone base to help fish move upstream. A large drop from the culvert outlet will also be replaced with a series of step pools created to allow the upward movement of adult fish into the catchment.

Dr Greer said the involvement of Millburn Primary School was a way in which to involve the local community in the scheme. He explained: “The children from Millburn have helped plant trees in the area visually complimenting the environmental aspect of the scheme. In February they also began a Salmon-in-the-Classroom project to rear 100 salmon eggs which we have now been able to release into the river. This local interest in the river will hopefully continue and with completion of the new flood defences the environmental aspects will be enjoyed for many years to come.”

Where will you go in yours?

Dubarry of Ireland, Ballinasloe, County Galway T: +353 90 9642348

DUBARRY and DUBARRY & SHIELD DEVICE are registered trademarks of Dubarry Shoemakers Limited.

DUBARRY countrysports FEB12.indd 1

20/02/2012 15:21

COUNTRYSIDE NEWS Marine Bill CAI brief Environment Committee at Stormont Countryside Alliance Ireland was invited by the Environment Committee to give a briefing on the Marine Bill; which was recently introduced into the Northern Ireland Assembly. CAI, accompanied

by BASC briefed the Committee on a number of issues contained within the draft Bill. Lyall Plant, Chief Executive of Countryside Alliance Ireland, commented: “Whilst we believe the Marine Bill is theoretically a positive movement for Northern Ireland’s marine life, we are also very concerned about the ambiguity of this Bill. This obscurity leaves the Bill open to misinterpretation and potential abuse, and provides an opportunity for unsympathetic parties to unnecessarily prohibit legitimate rural pursuits. We therefore wish to see this Bill significantly revised to ensure that the legislation is both transparent and fair. Our briefing to the Environment Committee was a substantial step in the right direction; we have ensured the Committee is aware of our misgivings and what we recommend to make this piece of legislation just.”

If this Bill were to reach Royal Assent in its current form, many people may find their livelihoods and recreation severely curtailed unnecessarily. Countryside Alliance Ireland and BASC are doing everything in their power to ensure this does not happen, and we were pleased to be invited to give evidence to the Committee.

Help the Irish Red Grouse Association with Curlew Survey

Republic of Ireland Animal Health and Welfare Bill 2012 CAI submits brief to Minister Coveney An Animal Health and Welfare Bill has recently been introduced into the Oireachtas. Countryside Alliance Ireland welcomes any legislation that aims to improve the standard of animal welfare in Ireland. However, we are concerned with the ambiguity and inconsistency of this Bill and the potential opportunity this may provide for unsympathetic parties to unnecessary curtail countrysports, and indeed diminish the level of welfare afforded to animals at present.

We strongly feel the draft Bill needs serious revision to provide greater clarity and remove the potential for misinterpretation and abuse. CAI recently contributed to a submission undertaken by F.A.C.E. Ireland to outline several organisations’ concerns relating to the Bill.

As an organisation that campaigns for the countryside and the rural way of life, CAI has also submitted a brief; both to the Minister himself and to the Select Subcommittee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine, highlighting the issues that we believe require revision.

Our prime concern is the lack of provision within the Bill to allow for the prophylactic docking of working dogs’ tails. This is an essential animal welfare tool and we strongly believe it is imperative that a provision be included within the Animal Health and Welfare Bill to allow for the continuation of this procedure. We will continue to liaise with the Department and keep our members up to date via our email updates, website, facebook page and twitter.

Curlew numbers in Ireland have rapidly declined over the past number of years and it has been reported that there may be as few as 200 breeding pairs left throughout the country. This is in stark contrast to the last Breeding Atlas (1988-1991) where the Irish population was estimated at around 5,000 pairs.

As a proactive conservation force, the Irish Red Grouse Association (IRGA) is assisting Birdwatch Ireland and calling for all country sports enthusiasts to be vigilant and to report any sightings of curlew to them so that they may gauge and monitor the populations in each county. At present the IRGA are focussing mainly on the Monaghan, Cavan and Leitrim areas. The Irish Red Grouse Association was established in November 2010 and aims to promote active moorland management with an overall objective to increase the numbers of Irish red grouse. Since its inception, the Association has gone from strength to strength and now they wish to extend their expertise to help conserve curlew.

Many different factors have contributed to the curlew’s decline; including loss of habitat, predation and intensive farming practices; indeed many causes similar to the fall in red grouse numbers.

The IRGA Chairman, Vincent Flannelly said: “I urge everyone to help us in our aim to preserve and protect curlew numbers with the overall future objective of introducing a proactive breeding programme. The curlew is seriously endangered; they have been red listed as a globally endangered species since 2007. We must act now before it is too late and we hope we can count on your support.”

If you would like to be a part of the survey, please forward any useful information or sightings to Vincent Junior winners of the Dog Guru’s training session at Ballywalter Game Fair Abbey with her Flannery at nessa.od@hotmail.com or dog Nero and Melissa with her dog Mollie with Dog Guru Keith Mathews, Dog Guru and Ashley Graham and David Agnew CAI. contact Vincent on +353 (0) 87 612 2568.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

COUNTRYSIDE NEWS CAI in Attendance at First Two Fairs of the Season The CAI Team have now attended the first two fairs of the year held at Ballywalter Estate during the first weekend of May and at Moira Demesne on the last.

The glorious weather provided the perfect backdrop for each and the CAI marquee was busy as usual with the British Deer Society NI, Lindsay Carlisle and the Sunnyland Beagles all joining us at both events.

Ian Summerell (gunmaker) joined us at Moira. The British Deer Society NI brought along their state-of-the-art quads for visitors to see, which proved a popular attraction both to visitors and exhibitors alike! The beagles were well behaved and provided much entertainment for the youngsters.

They, along with BDS NI and Lindsay will also be attending the Irish Game Fair and Country Lifestyle Festival at Shanes Castle on 7th and

8th July so do come along and visit the stand. Photos from all the events we attend this summer can be viewed on our website – www.caireland.org or facebook page.

CAI Website Access The CAI website can now only be accessed via the URL www.caireland.org. All previous website addresses are no longer in use and will not be redirected.

NASRPC Irish International Open The National Association of Sporting Rifle & Pistol Clubs is pleased to announce the inaugural ‘NASRPC Irish International Open’, which will be held at Harbour house Sports Club, Lougharbour, Athy, County Kildare on Friday 13th – Sunday 15th July 2012.

Headline Events – IGRF International Series The Match will include the Irish Leg of the IGRF International Series in both Lever Action Gallery Rifle and Smallbore Gallery Rifle.

Other Competitions – Individual & Team The event will include a wide variety of disciplines, including Shotgun, Rifle & Pistol. Individual and team events will be open to all experience competitors. Both individual and team entrants will be welcomed and all NASRPC competitions are open competitions.

For additional information – www.NASRPC.ie If you wish to register your interest or have any questions then please email nasrpcirishopen@nasrpc.ie

Ulster Reform Club Clay Pigeon Shoot: Jason Fears, winner of the top visitor prize, receives a year’s complimentary membership of CAI from Joe McKee (President, URC) and Chris McCleane, Director, Cunningham Coates. (L-R) Joe McKee, President of the Ulster Reform Club, Jason Fears, Chris McLeane, Cunningham Coates (Main Sponsor).

Obituary

The late Edwin (Eddie) McKinstry uch regret and a deep sense of sadness and loss has been occasioned on the death of Edwin McKinstry, who passed away peacefully at Daisy Hill Hospital on Monday 5 March 2012, aged 54 years. Edwin was the youngest son of the late George and Muriel McKinstry, Rathfriland, Co Down.

Edwin was very well known and highly respected by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. A member of the Banbridge Cage Bird Society, he took a great interest in bird shows and travelled to England and Scotland on many occasions, won many cups and judged at many bird shows over the years. Edwin also kept pigeons and was involved with many pigeon clubs around the country. He was a member of the Sporting Whippet Club NI and had a passion for showing and racing his pedigree Whippets. Edwin won many trophies and cups with his top Whippets and spent many hours training and grooming them for show day. He was a very active

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committee member of the Sporting Whippet Club NI and played a big part on show days helping with the organisation and successful running of the shows. He will be missed terribly by all committee members and show goers both here in Ireland, UK mainland, Scotland and Wales.

With Edwin’s interest in these clubs and through his working life , he made many friends and acquaintances along the way.

This was very evident by the large attendance at his funeral when he was laid to rest in Brookvale Presbyterian Church burial ground in his native Rathfriland.

On behalf of all the Whippet community, the Cage Bird Clubs and the Pigeon Clubs in Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, and The Great Game Fairs Of Ireland, I offer the McKinistry Family our sincerest sympathies. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time in your life.

Gone but not forgotten.

Margaret McStay

The late Edwin (Eddie) McKinstry (photo courtesy Deirdre McCoy).

Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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Barbour’s Sporting History

In 1894 John Barbour catered for fishermen, sailors and dockers.

One of Barbour’s iconic images - the Country Walker

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arbour, the legendary maker of weatherproof clothing, has always thrived on the values of the British countryside and has a truly sporting heritage.

From its earliest days, the company serviced consumers across the leisure, country and sporting markets, providing garments that fulfilled the changing needs and high expectations of its customers. Throughout Barbour’s history, the company has always remained true to its founding values of quality, durability, fitness for purpose and attention to detail.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

The Barbour story began in 1894 when John Barbour, a Scot from Galloway, opened a store in South Shields, a burgeoning port in north-east England. He initially supplied oilskins and protective garments to fisherman, sailors and dockers, establishing a reputation for innovation, quality and fitness for purpose.

Then in 1908, John’s son, Malcolm, created the first Barbour mail-order catalogue advertising Barbour’s special lightweight Beacon coat, suitable for yachting, fishing, driving, boating, walking and shooting. The special lightweight Beacon With this expansion coat of 1908.

into mail order came the broadening of Barbour’s client base and, in turn, the beginning of the growth of the Barbour sporting tradition.

in country wear. Confirming the company’s tradition of delivering long standing quality, Barbour received its first Royal Warrant from HRH the Duke of Edinburgh in 1974, followed by a second royal warrant being issued

by Her Majesty The Queen in 1982 and a third from HRH, the Prince of Wales in 1987.

War hero Captain George Phillips wearing his ‘submariner’ Barbour

With a broader client base comes a larger collection, and in 1939, war hero Captain George Phillips asked Barbour to produce a weatherproof jacket and trousers for those on watch to wear on board his submarine. The Ursula suit then went on to become standard issue for submariners throughout the Second World War. The Ursula jacket evolved after the war into the iconic motorcycling International jacket which is still in the Barbour collection to this day. In 1964, actor Steve McQueen wore the Barbour International motorcycle suit while competing as part of the US team at the International Six Days Trial in East Germany. The suit soon became de rigueur on the circuit from the 1950s to the 1970s, and has inspired many of the jackets in the current collections.

Early CLA Game Fair stand

In 1965, Barbour attended the CLA Game Fair for the first time, affirming the brand’s place as a sporting essential and re-establishing Barbour’s traditional place

Dame Margaret Barbour’s iconic wax jackets were household names Then came the eighties, a time when Barbour’s Chairman, Dame Margaret Barbour designed the three iconic wax jackets that made Barbour a household name: the Bedale, the Beaufort and the Border. These jackets remain best sellers and are still produced at Barbour’s factory in South Shields.

At the turn of the century, Barbour expanded its collections as the company moved towards becoming a lifestyle brand, offering shirts, knitwear, trousers, accessories and footwear alongside its famous jackets and quilts. In 2004, Barbour worked with Lord James Percy, considered to be one of the best shots of his generation, in designing the Northumberland Sporting Range - a collection of technically advanced shooting and country wear designed by a practical sportsman.

The collection won the IPC Shooting Industry Award for Best Clothing Product the following year.

Since then, Barbour’s Sporting Range has gone from strength to strength. 2008 saw the introduction of the Linhope Featherweight - the lightest sporting jacket that Barbour has ever produced. It was launched at the CLA Game Fair and sold out on the first day. In 2010, the Belford jacket, Barbour’s new ladies sporting jacket, again saw Barbour scoop the IPC Shooting Industry Award for Best Clothing Product.

In 2011, Vice Chairman of Barbour and the fifth generation of the family, Helen Barbour, became Head of Barbour Sporting. In conjunction with Lord James Percy, Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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Helen Barbour, Vice Chairman of Barbour and Head of Barbour Sporting.

Helen launched her first sporting range. The collection, designed for the active sportsman, lead the way in quality, performance, and technical innovation. GORETEX® featured for the first time in three products and a new Sporting tartan was introduced. Helen said: ‘When I decided to create Barbour Sporting, like many of my family before me I looked to Barbour’s heritage as an inspiration for the future. The company was founded on the principles of quality, durability, fitness for purpose and attention to detail. These principles remain as true today as when my great great grandfather, John Barbour, opened his first shop in South Shields.’

2012’s collection continues this legacy of quality. New to the men’s collection for AW12 is the Sporting Featherweight Climate. Made from a tough and robust GORE-TEX® Ripstop outer, the Sporting Featherweight Climate is extremely lightweight but with the added addition of a soft and warm inner fleece, it’s ideal for driven and rough shooting and comes into its own in colder weather. This season has also seen the expansion of the Ladies’ range, with three new ladies shooting jackets added to the collection. The stand out piece is the Sporting Cotterdale 3 in 1, the ultimate all season jacket designed to keep ladies in the field, warm and ideal for driven shooting. This jacket comes with a detachable fleece waistcoat which can be worn underneath the jacket or on its own.

For early season grouse and driven shooting, the Sporting Farndale fits the bill whilst the Sporting Belford is the ultimate all rounder. For shooting lunches or general country wear, the Thornton blazer and waistcoat are smart, elegant and well cut new pieces in the range.

Also new to the range this year is Barbour’s Sporting footwear collection. In a traditional sturdy Derby brogue with commando sole and storm welted brass eyelets, the Ilkley brogues are ideal to wear with breeks or moleskin trousers.

The Albacore leather and nubuck boots featuring the new Barbour Tech breathable membrane, have been designed to keep feet warm and dry for long periods of time. The longer Horsa nubuck and wax cotton field boots, also featuring the Barbour Tech breathable membrane, are 100% waterproof, extremely warm and comfortable to wear and very easy to put on and take off. No country outing would be safe without a good pair of wellington boots, and Barbour’s Lysander wellingtons with their neoprene lining ensure plenty of warmth.

The 2012 Barbour Sporting collection will be launched in July. For a list of stockists and for further information on the collection, please visit www.barboursporting.com The Ladies’ Sporting Cotterdale 3-in-1 Jacket is one of the latest additions to the Barbour Sporting Collection, available to purchase from July.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Smyths Country Sports, 1 Park Street, Coleraine BT52 1BD 028 7034 3970 www.barboursporting.com Stockist enquiries: +44 (0)191 427 4210

The Sun Shines on Ballywalter at the first of the Great Game Fairs of Ireland From the initial hugely successful press reception, where over 100 (actually 105) press, event organisers and prominent field sports personalities assembled to enjoy coffee at the house, photographs and then an excellent lunch in the Wildfowler Inn, until the last person left the site on the Sunday, the weather was kind to the Ballywalter Game & Country Living Fair.

Ballywalter’s Game Fair launch and press conference received extensive media coverage.

Action packed programme Yes we had some rain on Friday during set up and on Monday taking down, but although cold throughout the days of the fair, the poor weather experienced elsewhere with hail stones five miles away in one direction and flooding three miles in the other the poor weather rather swerved round us to enable us to deliver an excellent traditional Game Fair experience for the crowds who enjoyed trading over 26

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

150 stands, the well organised competitions with excellent prize funds; the action packed main arena programme; the living history village and the new Flavour magazine Fine Food Festival in the stable yard.

Traditional entertainment Three years on from when the original fair staged at Ballywalter was cancelled, the team from the Great

Some Pictures from the Ballywalter Game Fair - more to come in the Autumn Issue

A huge crowd and the Fair had only just opened its doors to the public.

The Flavour Fine Food Festival & Chef Emmett McCourt.

Ms Countrylifestyle with Hunter Boots Sponsor Laurence Hawley.

Punt Gunning with Liz & Mark Edgar

Napoleonic Fire Power

Poacher

Ms Countrylifestyle with Barbour Sponsor Stephen Smyth.

Liz demonstrating ‘cripple stopping’

Terrier racing (Above) Kids & Hounds

(Below) The crowds enjoyed the day’s family entertainment.

Game Fairs of Ireland, have steadily brought this fair back to life, through focusing on the traditional game fair values of utilising the inherent beauty of Ballywalter Estate and its most accommodating hosts, Lord & Lady Dunleath. And by investing in good traditional entertainment and good competitions with prize structures unrivalled by any other Irish fair other than the Shanes Castle and Birr Castle Fairs. For this fair we have eschewed going down the route of bewigged pop tribute groups or beer festivals, and simply focused on good traditional country living entertainment for the whole family. AND it worked.

Traders reported good business – in fact better business that they did at other slightly larger events – and feedback from our market research indicates that the sporting public have appreciated that we rescued this fair and that through it have given exceptional value for money. We did this by giving them half price or better vouchers for other great days out at the much larger Shanes Castle Fair on the 7th & 8th July and the Birr Castle Fair on the 25th & 26th August.

Angling Village The new Angling Village under the year of the ‘Salmon & Trout’ theme was a success, with Emmett Mc Court, in the Flogas kitchen, cooking up some fantastic modern and even Victorian fish dishes; Ingrid Houwers putting on one of the best taxidermy displays I have ever seen at any fair and artist John R Moore not only displaying our iconic painting ‘Salmon on the Glendun River,’ which is illustrative of the overall angling theme of the fair, but also other fantastic wildlife and sporting paintings. However, this was very much just the ‘aperitif’ for huge Angling Villages at Shanes & Birr Castle fairs. With no angling show in Northern Ireland this year – the Shanes Castle event has ‘taken up the slack’ and will be a real focal point for anglers with groups such as the campaigning ‘No to Salmon Nets in Irish Waters’ and the Sixmilewater Trust joining FISSTA, APGAI Ireland and a host of other boat and tackle stands in the largest outdoor angling show ever to be mounted in Northern Ireland.

course we used the locally produced Titanic Whiskey as presentations for our judges. I understand ‘the Titanic whiskey ‘went down well’ in the Flavour Fine Food Festival!

This Flavour magazine Fine Food Village in the yard brought together a superb display of local produce. It was so successful that once again we have ‘rolled this forward’ to the Shanes Castle event to give the largest display of fine foods ever seen at any Irish Game & Country Fair.

Competitions Competition entries were buoyant in clays, gundogs and terriers & lurchers and some novel displays were mounted including I think a first for any game fair anywhere – a punt gunning demo by a lady. Liz Edgar, ably assisted by brother Mark, serenely paddled down the lake, not only to discharge the punt gun, but also give a display of ‘cripple stopping’ with her shotgun.

This was greatly appreciated by the crowd and by the BBC radio team who were present.

A full report on all three fairs under the Great Game Fairs of Ireland brand will be carried in our Autumn edition of the magazine but for those who missed Ballywalter we provide a photographic roundup of some of the highlights, as we look forward to our two really large fairs of 2012, the Irish Game Fair & Country Lifestyle Festival at Shanes Castle on the 7th & 8th July (www.irishgamefair.com) and the Irish Game & Country Fair, at Birr Castle on the 25th & 26th August (www.irishgameandcountryfair.com).

The fair was mounted with the support of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Ards Borough Council and a large number of sponsors who were listed in the programme.

Living history The living History village with ‘Sharpe’s Rifles’ and even a very stylish ‘Georgian Tea party’ was quite at home amongst the traditional horse drawn vehicles and displays of vintage cars and military vehicles and will take centre stage at Shanes Castle within again a hugely enlarged living history village there. We didn’t get completely caught up in ‘Titanic mania’ but paid tribute to the great ship with a very tasteful display of relevant memorabilia by the local BB museum and of 28

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Jim Shannon, MP, with Richard & Liz Edgar and Albert Titterington.

CHARLIE KEENAN Tay

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The Torray is a premium field sports boot with the Mossy Oak break-up camouflage pattern over the full surface of the boot.

It has additional rubber overlays for reinforced toe, heel and Achilles areas.

Breathable Airmesh Lining with extra fleece lining for superb insulation and comfort.

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Charlie wears Hoggs Wax Indian Hat £25 and Big Bill waterproof, breathable cammo parka £85

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Torray

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Thurso

The Esk has a heavy duty sole making it ideal for agricultural or equestrian use. Colours Black or Green. Breathable Airmesh Lining.

The Tay Sport has been specifically designed for country sports wear. It has a sticky rubber sole with 5mm cleats and phylon mid sole with additional rubber overlays for reinforcing toe, heel and Achilles areas. Breathable Airmesh Lining with extra fleece lining for superb insulation and comfort.

The Thurso 3.5 Field is a field boot combining a new style with cooling technology. The HYPER-VENT Airmesh lining has a diamond structure and is open faced to double the cooling effect by allowing air to pass more feely around the lining.

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From Des Crofton, NARGC

R.I.S.E. emerges again to challenge government on hunting issues

RISE Chairman, Oliver Russell (L) and NARGC’s Des Crofton (R) addressing the inaugural meeting of the new RISE Board.

A

new, reinvigorated, Board has been appointed to RISE (Rural Ireland Says Enough).

Thirteen new members join Chairman Oliver Russell, Secretary Turlough Coffey, the HAI’s David Wilkinson and Des Crofton of NARGC. This a handpicked young and energetic Board which is charged with organising a nationwide campaign to vent the widespread anger of shooting, fishing and hunting groups at the unresponsiveness of the present Government to their concerns. The Government is widely regarded as having abandoned all promises made to all rural organisations.

The inaugural meeting of the new Board was given a detailed briefing on Saturday, May 12th, of the main issues on which it will focus over the coming months.

Labour and Fine Gael politicians in particular will be targeted for what hunting, shooting and fishing associations believe is political disregard for their concerns as manifested by the response of the Minister for Justice and other members of the Cabinet to the outcome of the High Court firearms licensing test cases, including their attempts to defend the behaviour of 32

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

some senior Gardai who allegedly had been found to have interfered with evidence and who breached the Garda disciplinary code while at the same time demonising the NARGC for supporting the challenges.

This issue is set against the background of the intervention and findings of Mr Justice Hedigan following which 168 cases were settled with an order for costs in excess of €1million against the Gardai.

The deep rooted resentment and anger which is directed against Labour for opposing, and Fine Gael for reneging, on the pre-general election commitment by Fine Gael to repeal the legislation banning hunting by the Ward Union Stag Hounds in return for votes in the general election has now boiled over. This legislation was brought in by John Gormley of the Green Party when he was Minister for the environment to appease Green supporters in the anti-hunting organisations. No hunting associations were consulted or met by Gormley despite requests while the anti-organisations were welcomed in his Department. Fine Gael in particular is now being regarded as something of a pariah having taken the votes for which they promised a repeal of the legislation and then shamelessly reneged on that commitment.

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The failure to have any consultation with hunting representatives in the drafting of the Animal Health & Welfare Bill is also a highly contentious issue, particularly following previous broken promises on the Dog Breeding Establishments Act. The Bill is contradictory, confused and bans some important traditional welfare practices such as docking the tails of working dogs. This Bill is being introduced by Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney.

John Flannery of the Hunting Association of Ireland said: “This Bill in its current form will be strongly opposed by all fieldsports groups because it will create more problems than it will solve. The Minister has told the Seanad that there has been wide consultation in the drafting of this Bill. Well, there has been no consultation with the thirteen national fieldsports associations who represent 300,000 people all of whom will be affected by this Bill. Everyone wants to support improved animal welfare provisions but they must be realistic, capable of delivering the intended improvements and enjoy the support of the majority of people who are experienced in the control of animals. This Bill does not yet tick any of these boxes.”

Fury too over fish farms proposal The Federation of Irish Salmon and Sea Trout Anglers (FISSTA) has been infuriated by the proposal of Minister Simon Coveney to licence ten new fish farms which will threaten the conservation of wild Atlantic salmon.

FISSTA has succeeded in securing the conservation of wild salmon by forcing a buy-out of drift netting. The Minister now proposes to undermine that positive contribution to the future of wild salmon by licensing these farms. FISSTA spokesman Noel Carr said: “FISSTA is embarking on a public awareness campaign in Galway

on May 20th and at the RISE meeting in Cork on June 7th to highlight the potential decimation of the Atlantic Salmon and Sea Trout.”

These issues have now festered to the point of uniting all thirteen national hunting, shooting and fishing organisations under the RISE banner. The Board has decided to kick-start the campaign with a monster rally in Cork on Thursday, June 7th at 8pm in the Silver Springs Hotel to which all Munster TDs and Senators and the Minister for Agriculture will be invited. Please come along and support the meeting and show the political establishment what a real crowd looks like.

Enough of broken promises NARGC’s Des Crofton said: “Quite frankly we have all had enough of this government’s deception, broken promises and spin. Fieldsports people are simply no longer in the mood to tolerate the dishonesty. There is no excuse for treating taxpayers in this way and the RISE supporters are not going to accept it. The Government doesn’t have the excuse on any of these issues of relying on coercion by the EU/IMF/EUCB troika. They tell and promise one thing and then do the opposite and they know full well what they are doing. The gloves are off and RISE is about to teach both Fine Gael and Labour a lesson. The politicians should already know what the shooting, hunting and fishing organisations are capable of. They have the numbers on their side, some 300,000, which will be mobilised through RISE. They can expect serious damage to Fine Gael and Labour held seats in the local elections and after that the focus will be on the general election. If the Government wishes to avoid this fight, it must deliver immediately on all of these issues.

Hunting, shooting and fishing has simply lost patience with the Government.”

The RISE Board at its inaugural meeting on May 12th.

Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

34

THE ‘GOLDEN’ GAME FAIR AT SHANES CASTLE - AND ON TO BIRR The Great Game Fairs of Ireland stage their 50th Irish Game Fair their ‘Golden’ Game Fair - at Shanes Castle followed by their 51st Fair at Birr Castle.

Albert Titterington and a group of enthusiasts staged the first ever sustainable Game Fair in Ireland 34 years ago and now Shanes Castle’s Irish Game Fair and Country Lifestyle Festival on 7th and 8th July marks their 50th game fair in an unrivalled run of top quality events.

It will be a ‘golden anniversary’ like no other and the organisers already cock a hoop the way that plans are shaping up to offer the public the most exciting game fair ever seen in Ireland to be quickly followed by an almost equally impressive 51st Fair at Birr Castle on the 25th &26th August.

Looking back at the record breaking history of the Fairs, Albert Titterington said that the Irish Game Fair & Country Lifestyle Festival at Shanes Castle, Antrim was always the leading spectacle for families and country lifestyle enthusiasts. And 2012’s event would be the very best so far.

In spite of rumours that Albert will retire after the fairs this year , he is adamant that the show will roll on into 2013 and beyond , and plans are already well advanced for the 2013 fairs with a surprise announcement and a possible new venue planned!

The Year of the Salmon & Trout and the best Angling Villages ever mounted at any Irish game or country fair Albert Titterington said: “Our Game Fairs showcase country pastimes, conservation and the rural way of life.

Every year we introduce new attractions, competitions and themes and this year is no exception. Themes such as the ‘Year of the Horse’ were followed by the ‘Year of the Dog’ and this year it’s the ‘Year of the Salmon & Trout.’ And this fishy theme is the focal point for the huge ‘Angling Village’ at Shanes Castle with everything one would expect at a top class angling show and more!

Masses of tackle and plenty of bargains, boats, angling competitions, instruction and demonstrations, vintage tackle, fisheries, sporting art, taxidermy, and even speciality game and fish cookery with Emmett McCourt in the Flogas kitchen. Plus of course John R Moore displaying his iconic painting of a Salmon on the Glendun river’ and other paintings.”

The Angling Village has the unrivalled support of the most active Irish angling organisations such as FISSTA, APPGAI Ireland, NSN ( No Salmon Nets in IrishWaters) and The Six Mile Water Trust. These and other organisations , government bodies and angling hotels will help the Angling Village at Shanes a place that no serious angler will want to miss.

Damian McElholm from APGAI Ireland summed up their participation in the fairs: “APGAII will be attending the Great Game Fairs of Ireland as usual and we look forward to meeting old and new anglers at Shane’s Castle and Birr. We have a programme of continuous workshops for casting and equipment plus fly dressing covering the hot topics of today’s game angling scene. We will have a full complement of experienced coaches to create a number Shanes Castle crowds

Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

35

of interactive learning and discussion groups for the serious angler. On top of that we will have a number of attractions for the young anglers with games and fly dressing competitions plus sampling classes for young casters. We will be running a casting competition based around skill as opposed to distance with two levels “professional” and “amateur” with good prizes of kit and equipment sponsored by Stevie Munn and Mark Patterson.”

“On behalf of the ‘Mark Finney Wheelchair Support Group’ we will be selling ballots for a range of superb prizes including the first numbered framed salmon print worth around £750; a Climb 8 Suit; Glennoo fishing day plus a great selection of framed flies and professional tied trout flies by APGAII members and others.

“Below are some pictures of our newly qualified OCN level 3 instructors receiving their certificates at the first of the Great Game Fairs of Ireland at Ballywalter. These new level 3 instructors are the very first ever to receive this award and they studied from October of 2011 and sat their exams and practical in March and April 2012.

This is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom and Ireland as the award is a level 3 diploma which is equivalent to A. Levels in Northern Ireland and the Leaving Certificate in the Republic of Ireland. Do please visit our website for more detail. www.apgai-ireland.ie or see us on our stand in the Angling Village at Shanes Castle.”

Other traditional country pastimes such as shooting, hunting and working gundogs take pride of place too, with bigger and better competitions and displays and even more to see and do for everyone. There’s a huge gunmaker’s row with displays of both modern and vintage weapons and even a product launch by Fabarm, clay pigeon shooting, black powder demonstrations, international equestrian displays, dog agility, horses, hounds and birds of prey with Main Arena entertainment to suit all ages.

Albert added: “The Fair has always sought to educate and entertain the whole family and at Shanes, the

Joe Stitt presenting Paddy Keenan with his APGAII/OCN level 3 diploma in Fly Dressing.

36

sporting organisations have a focus on youth, living history areas emphasise the development of our history and culture, while conservation areas stress the importance of looking after our countryside. Other attractions for the family include fine food, art, crafts, fantastic action-packed main arena programmes, a huge range of animals and opportunities to ‘have a go. But it’s ‘re-enactment’ that the kids will really go for with riflemen demonstrating the way that battles were won or lost in an age when a soldier’s life depended on a musket ball and his own skills. As well you can mingle with these soldiers in their camp, so realistic you’ll expect to meet the legendary Sharpe himself as his sharpshooters go about their daily tasks. For those with an interest in more gentle living history you may well have the opportunity to join a stylish Georgian Tea Party!”

The Best Competitions and Prize Structures As for competitions and prize structures – the Great Game Fairs of Ireland have the best competitions and the best prize structure in Ireland – simply because as Albert says: “Unlike other events we believe in putting real investment back into our country sports.” Birr hosts the All Ireland Game Fair Championships in clay shooting, flycasting and gundog handling - this year Shanes hosts the Barbour Novice Championship Finals and heats for the All-comers Championships at Birr.

The largest canine events in Ireland There are the largest canine events in Ireland with the top prize funds, and Shanes hosts the 25th anniversary of the All Ireland Terrier & Lurcher Championships, the Master McGrath Challenge and new Novice Lurcher Challenge. Meanwhile, for gundog enthusiasts Shanes Castle hosts the only real international gundog event this year – The Feedwell International Retriever Test with retriever teams from NI, ROI meeting an English team and the Ulster Select team and an NI Spaniel Team

Joe Stitt and Packie Trotter presenting Darren Lee with his APGAII/OCN level 3 diploma in Single Handed Rod.

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Joe Stitt presenting Keith Cole with his APGAII/OCN level 3 diploma in Fly Dressing.

THE GREAT GAME FAIRS OF IRELAND Celebrate a ‘Golden Year’ with their 50th Fair at Shanes Castle.

It is planned that the Shanes Castle and Birr Castle fairs will be really special and Ireland’s best ever Game Fairs – don’t miss them!

Real Living History

7th and 8th July 2012 Ireland’s largest Game Fair…..

The Irish Game Fair & Country Lifestyle Festival, Shanes Castle, Co Antrim

25th and 26th August 2012 The ROI’s premier Game or Country Fair….

The Irish Game and Country Fair, Birr Castle, Birr, Co. Offaly For Further details of the Fairs : T: 028 (from ROI 048) 44839167/44615416 Read all about the Game Fairs and all Irish hunting, shooting and fishing in the Irish Countrysports and Country Life magazine available in your newsagents or online at www.countrysportsandcountrylife.com See the 2011 Great Game Fairs of Ireland on www.fieldsportschannel.tv

meeting one from the ROI in the Red Mills sponsored event. On display in the main arena will be the CLA Gundog team part sponsored by the Great Game Fairs of Ireland and there will be a strong array of supporting events including the Red Mills Novice & Open Spaniel Tests; and the Feedwell Dog & Gun team and individual events; Novice and Retriever open tests. Red Mills and Dubarry Boots have teamed up to sponsor a head to head test between the Top Spaniel and the Top Retriever at Shanes and Red Mills and DT Dog Boxes have teamed up for a similar competition at Birr. There is also the final of the Irish scurry championships.

The best gundog competitions When one adds in a dog agility competition and main arena displays sponsored by Irish Countrysports and Country Life magazine; the appearance of the one and only Dog Guru Keith Mathews; horse & hounds; and the Chudley’s pedigree dog show organised by the NIGFSS including a special class which should see up to twenty Irish Wolfhounds create the imagery associated with the legendary Massereene Hound, one can see that the events which lead the way in terms of canine splendour and variety and international status are those organised by the Great Game Fairs of Ireland.

Terriers,Whippets & Lurchers The 25th Anniversary of any event is an auspicious one and the All Ireland Terrier & Lurcher Championships taking place over the two days at Shanes will be one of the highlights of the terrier, whippet and lurcher year. Racing will take place on Saturday 7th July with the show taking place on the Sunday. In keeping with the occasion we have brought in our judges from Scotland. Derek Davidson will judge terriers; Stuart (Denned) Bell lurchers and Leigh Marshall whippets.

Apart from the prestige of winning the coveted All 38

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Top events for terriers & lurchers Ireland titles there is the final of the Master McGrath Challenge where qualifiers from all over the UK and Ireland will compete for the title of having the fastest dog in the UK or Ireland this year this event is mainly sponsored by Irish Countrysports and Country life magazine with the support of other sponsors including Feedwell and Wildhunter. This race has a prize fund in excess of £1500. The winner of the All Ireland Lurcher Showing Title will join other qualifiers from all over the UK and Ireland to compete at the fair at Birr Castle for the Five Nations Lurcher Champion title. Novice dogs have not been forgotten and the new Director’s Novice Racing Challenge with heats for terrier cross lurcher; rough coated lurcher and smooth coated lurcher and a grand final sponsored by Philip Lawton with a prize of €300. And a new event for retired greyhounds, pet grey hounds etc a special race for them! To see further details of the terrier, whippet and lurcher events see www.irishgamefair.com. Please note events start at 12.30 each day.

The Glenbank Working Dog Club will put on a terrier, whippet & any sort of dog racing display in the main arena on Sunday and on Saturday Derek Davidson and his team have brought his legendary terrier roadshow to entertain you in the main arena and provide a static display throughout the two days.

Moving on to Birr the racing and show are in the capable hands of the Roscrea Club. Once again there will be a superb range of events with an excellent prize fund.

Pride of place must go to Five Nations Lurcher Final with a final chance to qualify in the lurcher showing at Birr followed by a Grand Final in the main arena. Once again the prize fund for this competition exceeds €1,500.

Shooting The clay shooting arena at Birr has always been one of the finest in Ireland with a prize fund usually in excess of €15,000 and this year is no exception as it hosts the

Final of the All Ireland Game Fair Championship where four qualifiers from Ballywalter and four qualifiers from Shanes will meet for qualifiers from Birr in a grand shoot out for a Beretta 682 shotgun worth over £3,000 sponsored by Ardee Sports.

Bang on target for clay shooting.

The Shanes Castle shoot this year also hosts qualifiers for Birr and qualifiers and the final of the Barbour Novice Game Fair Championships. The overall shoot also has a superb prize fund with a Beretta 682 as top prize; a Bettinsoli shotgun sponsored by Donal McCloy Guns Unlimited and other excellent quality prizes including cash. BASC have kindly put up a £50 prize each day for the top score in the Side by Side competition.

A new competition which was launched successfully at Ballywalter and now moves forward to Shanes Castle is the BASC/Irish Countrysports and Country Life Wildfowlers Challenge. This is organised by the Joint Council of Strangford Lough and open to bona fide wildfowlers from all over Ireland. It involves clay shooting, air rifle shooting and dummy throwing. Top prize sponsored by BASC is £100 with runner up prizes and a special prize for the top BASC member.

A huge tented village As we go to press the stand count for both Shanes Castle and Birr Castle is much higher than at this time last year and both events are expected to be the largest ever. Apart from the much larger Angling Villages and Gunmakers Rows; all of the ‘old favourite’ clothing companies are there plus some new ones; Paul Morgan will be at Shanes with his fine range of sporting books as will the launch of a new 4 x 4 vehicle. In short if you want to buy anything for the family to enjoy ‘the country lifestyle’ you will find it, often at bargain prices, in the trade village at the two fairs.

The new Flavour Food Festival at Ballywalter was yet another innovation which enhanced the normal food and craft displays. Albert added: “Following on from the successful partnership with Flavour magazine at Ballywalter Game Fair in mounting what many described as the best food festival ever seen at any game or country fair, the two teams have combined to put on three huge food pavilions at Shanes Castle.”

Flavour Fine Food Festival Organised and hosted by Flavour magazine, the Food Festival brings together an eclectic mix of producers from the region, allowing visitors to sample and buy some of the finest food and drink available in Ireland.

From handmade preserves and local whiskey including the newly launched Titanic Whiskey, to artisan breads and fine wines, there will be something sure to tickle your taste buds!

Other attractions for the family include fine food, art, crafts, a fantastic action-packed main arena programme, a huge range of animals and opportunities to ‘have a go’ plus of course our Living History Village.

Living History in Action BASC Chairman Robert Irvine presents Alan Harpur winner of the Ballywalter Wildfowling Challenge with his prize.

The Living History Village in the atmospheric setting of the old Castle has been revamped and now under the direction of George Logan, from Living Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

39

History Ireland. George will also co-ordinate main arena displays including the Dragoons, a cannon party, a display of Napoleonic fire power by Sharpe’s Rifles, Vikings with Horse, Medieval Knight’s and a hunting party with birds of prey dogs (Scottish deer hounds and wolf hounds) archers etc progressing up through the time line to Victorian sportsmen.

An action packed main arena programme Features dog agility, terriers & lurchers, music, living history, falconry, the Dog Guru, The Victorian Poacher, muzzle loading, gundog displays, fly casting displays and a range of equestrian events including horse and hounds, exciting mounted dragoons, running horses and the dancing horses of the Cochise Stud the fairs stage exciting carriage driving displays with both cross country and traditional vehicles.

We will have some other exciting developments to announce in due course but if you want to be part of Irish Countrysports History – don’t miss the ‘Golden Anniversary’ Fair at Shanes Castle on 7th and 8th July

Horse drawn vehicles at Birr.

40

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

‘Sharpe’s Rifles’ see www.irishgamefair.com and the Irish Game & Country Fair at Birr Castle on the 25th & 26th August 2012.

The Fairs are supported by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Antrim Council, Shannon Development and Failte Ireland.

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IIn n lo looking oking for forward ward d to the G Great reat G Game ame F Fairs Fa airs of IIreland’s rel r and’s 50th event event at Castle Fishing SShanes h hanees C astle this this July, July, former former Irish Irish Hunting Hunting SShooting h hooting & F ishing eeditor ditor Emma Cowan o ccan’t an’t hel help lp but savour savour thee fl flavours avours of years a years gone by by. y.

Black Bl ack ggrouse rouse tto o bl black ack pudd pudding ing

and allll ffor or o the the flavour... flaavou v urr... .

T he year, I believe, was 1987 and I a nubile young thing (or so my rose tinted variffocals see it) just out of university. The place was a car park between Lisburn and L ambeg . Centre stage, myself and a Black Grouse cock . He got a bit over-excited and, though you’d never tell from the resulting photograph, which was my first and only experience of front-page-Telegraph, the rotten little monster pooped all down my tee-shirt. That was my inaugural experience of game fairs! I know I still have the picture somewhere – damned if I can find it.

The man who talked me into this particular photoshoot was none other than Albert Titterington – he of 50 game fairs - and that summer I spent two ver y pleasant days under a hot sky persuading men in tweeds to subscribe to Irish Hunting Shooting & Fishing . I was bitten, not just by the game fair a bug , but by the countr ysports virus too.

I visited plenty more game fairs . I learned to fish (badly).

I learned to shoot - ‘dead-e yedick’ I was called on rabbits , but I never managed a high bird. I learned the etiquette of shoots , of gundog tests and trials . While the other half busied himself with spaniels , I took my early morning sport with my Lucas terrier and my slow lurcher, who only caught a rabbit once in her liffe. e I hunted a pack of Plummers and gave contraceptive pills to hedgehogs on Uist. I think the highlight, though, was going to the setter and pointer championship in the Slieve Blooms . As I struggled up the mountain thinking I was dying and men twice my age and thrice my girth sprinted past, I remember swearing I was going to buy my husband a setter. I

wrote as much in Countr yman’s Weekly and garnered a bit of a faan base on the back of it.

So many fabulous memories .

So good to come back to Shanes Castle and the greatest game fair of all.

Flavour Food Festival So what brings me back . Well, it’s Flavour (that would be the black pudding bit of the title). My sister Kathy and I left paid employ behind just over a year ago to launch our dream magazine.

Flavour is about all things food and drink and it’s what we know fo or we’ve lived the foodie liffestyle all our lives and, one way or anotherr, we’ve been writing in the area of food and drinkk fo or nigh on 30 years between us. It’s our passion.

We come from a small mall faarm, where we ate what we grew – even the kids that Nanny the goat bore. Pork and beef came in half a carcass (the butcher got the other half ) and chickens we killed, plucked and gutted ourselves – hence I was able to teach the husband how to gut a pheasant! We grew all our own veg and, thanks to my mother’s avant garde streak , were en njoying sweet peppers, courgettes and the like long beffor oe the advent of Tesco.

Food - local, real, most excellent food - is in our bones. The

result is Flavour, the first and only glossy magazine about all things food and drink in Northern Ireland and the border counties.

Launched last August, we soon discovered that we were not alone in our passions. We have a ollowers, as hoard of readers and fo passionate about their food – and drink – as us. If you’ve not picked up a copy of Flavour yet, well, you can – at the Irish Game Fair at Shane’s Castle this July – because that’s exactly why I’m back at the game fair a - to introduce you to Flavourr, some great, artisan food and easy-but-exciting cooking at the Flavour Food Festival.

We ran our first Flavour Food Festival at the Ballywalter Fair and it was a roaring success. Chatting to people who came along, I discovered that we brought Flavour fans a to Ballywalter to experience their first ever game fair a and we also had the chance to talk seasonal food and local provenance to thee game fair a audience who hadn’t met us beffor o e. We hope to do the same at Shanes onlyy, as with ever ything at Shanes Castle, on a grander scale.

Emma Cowan with her Lucas, back in their hunting days.

Fair game and fine food come together Our Flavour Food Festival marquee will be right by the main arena – so there’s no excuse, you have to visit us! We’ll have so much to tempt you – Titanic Whiskey (and Danny Boy), Boozeberries, Armagh Cider, Chateau de la Ligne wine, cheeses, chocolates, chutneys and chillis, breads and condiments and, of course, the Flavour kitchen, where trout will most definitely be the order of the day!

We’ll also have the most amazing hamper of foodie-goodies to be won, so there’ll be hundreds of tasty reasons to visit the Flavour Food Festival.

A s for me, I am pa ssionate ab out lo cal fo o d and drink and I’m lov ing e ver y minute of Flavour magazine, but I also miss those game fair days .

While you’re in snifffing around the Festiv al, I might well b e sneaking offf to the gundog scurr y! Fair game and fine fo o d – b etwe en us , we can enjoy b oth! Se e you there.

Don’t miss the

Flavour Food Festival

IRISH GAME FAIR & COUNTRY LIFESTYLE FESTIVAL Shane’s Castle, Antrim Saturday 7th - Sunday 8th July 2012

Find out more on Facebook

www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Your-Flavour

The north of Ireland’s only glossy magazine for all things food and drink.

Available from Tesco and all good independent newsagents and at the Flavour Food Festival at Shane’s Castle Irish Game Fair.

Flavour Shanes Copy.indd 3

26/05/2012 12:13:53

Albert Titterington reports on how

The Legend of the Massereene Hound was brought to life by the Great Game Fairs of Ireland

A

s we celebrate our own little bit of history with our 50th Irish game fair at Shanes Castle on the 7th & 8th July, I was delighted to find that Antrim, our host Council, were celebrating the opening of the new Clotworthy gardens in the grounds of the old Antrim Castle and also the 400th anniversary of the guardian of the old Antrim Castle – the Massereene Hound.

Over the years, through my interest in history, especially that of famous animals, I have helped rekindle interest in legendary animals such as the Byerly Turk and Master McGrath by commissioning iconic paintings to be used in our game fair promotional themes.

However the thought of delving even deeper into the past with the Massereene Hound really intrigued me especially as the legend took place ‘just down the road’ from our Game Fair site at Shanes Castle.

As with all good Irish legends, many of them featuring hounds both animate and ghostly, there are variations to the story but places and people in the story are completely factual and so obviously is the statue which for 400 years has guarded either Antrim Castle or Antrim town.

For brevity I will quote the version given by Alaistair Smyth in his book Antrim Town & Country.

Marion and the Wolfhound Antrim Castle and it’s beautiful woodland estate seemed an idyllic home for Sir Hugh Clotworthy in the early 1600s.

Clotworthy House 44

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

However, as Sir Hugh’s young bride, Lady Marion Clotworthy found life at Antrim Castle a lonely and miserable existence. Her husband was often absent on military business. She pined for the excitement and glamour of her girlhood days at Carrickfergus Castle.

Marian whiled away long hours wandering through the woodlands of the castle grounds. On one of her solitary strolls, she was confronted by a huge, savage wolf. At once the beast sprang at her. Marian screamed and collapsed in a faint.

Upon awakening, her gaze fell upon an incredible sight. The wolf lay dead, badly savaged. Standing guard by her side was an Irish Wolfhound, itself badly injured.

Together they made their way back to the castle where she tended her protector. It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. The shaggy guardian escorted Lady Marian on her daily rambles. The close companionship was set to save many lives.

One stormy night, armed enemies crept stealthily towards the castle. Just as they were about to attack, A wild barking alerted those asleep within the castle. In the midst of fierce firing, an agonised howl - as if from a beast - was heard. The castle was saved but daylight revealed a trail of blood that led to the wolfhound’s corpse.

By encasing the hound in stone and mounting it upon one of the castle’s front towers, Sir Hugh shrewdly calculated the effigy’s potential to ward off hostile but superstitious enemies. An added insurance, he propagated a belief that if ever the statue should be removed, the Massereene family would “speedily decay.”

Later alterations to the castle caused the statue to be taken down, initially to a wall of the estate subsequently, to the leisure centre’s lawn and now back into the new gardens of Clotworthy House.

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Visit Antrim Borough’s ‘newest’ historic gem Take a leisurely stroll through the unique, historic Antrim Castle Gardens and see the results of the £6m restoration project that has returned the Gardens to their former glory. Stop for a coffee or browse awhile in the shop. Whatever you do, we’re sure you won’t want to leave and you’ll definitely come back for more. Throughout the year, the Gardens will host a wide range of activities and entertainment for all the family.

Don’t delay pick up a What’s On guide and start planning your visit.

Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House Randalstown Road, Antrim BT41 4LH T. 028 9448 1338 E. culture@antrim.gov.uk W. www.antrim.gov.uk/clotworthyhouse

The castle quickly decayed after a fire in 1922 and the Massereene family has removed itself to England.”

April 1879, and a club was formed in 1885. The Irish Wolfhound now enjoys again something of the reputation that it had in the Middle Ages. Wolfhounds are now owned and bred in fairly large numbers in many countries.

Why we chose Aramis as the model for the Massereene Hound

The Irish Wolfhound

Origins We know the continental Celts kept a greyhound probably descended from the greyhound first depicted in Egyptian paintings. Like their continental cousins, the Irish Celts were interested in breeding large hounds.

These large Irish hounds could have had smooth or rough coats, but in later times, the rough coat predominated possibly because of the Irish climate.

They were already established in Ireland in the first century A.D. when Setanta changed his name to CuChulainn (the hound of Culann). Mention is made of the Uisneach (1st century) taking 150 hounds with them in their flight to Scotland. Pairs of Irish hounds were prized as gifts by the Royal houses of Europe, Scandinavia and elsewhere from the Middle ages to the 17th century.

They were sent to England, Spain, France, Sweden, Denmark, Persia, India and Poland. In the 15th century each county in Ireland was required to keep 24 wolfdogs to protect farmers’ flocks from the ravages of wolves.

The Cromwellian prohibition (1652) on the export of Wolfhounds helped preserve their number for a time but the gradual disappearance of the wolf and continued demand abroad reduced their numbers almost to the point of extinction by the end of the 17th century.

The revival of interest in the breed accompanied the growth of Irish nationalism in the late 19th century.The Irish Wolfhound became a living symbol of Irish culture and of the Celtic past. At this time, one determined enthusiast, Capt. G. A. Graham, set about obtaining some of the few remaining hounds of the Wolfhound type that could still be found in Ireland, and he eventually achieved a type of dog that bred true in every generation. The results were ultimately accepted as a legitimate revival of the breed. The Irish Kennel Club scheduled a class for Irish Wolfhounds at their show in 46

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

When looking for a model for the Antrim Hound I read widely on the history of the wolfhound and consulted with the artist John Moore, a keen sporting dog enthusiast and with Tim and Marion Finney renowned international breeders of quality wolfhounds who kindly supplied the short history above.

Some of the most evocative references to the wolfhound are made in an essay by A. J. Dawson: “The earliest history of Ireland, and even of Britain, includes some remarkably interesting details of the part played in the chase, and in war, by the Irish Wolfhound.

The “Tales of the Cycle of Finn” are full of such references. Finn was a mighty hunter, and in the poems attributed to Ossian there are more than two thousand verses dealing with Finn, and his hounds, and his hunting, and the names of three hundred of his hounds are given. The wild boar and the red deer contributed largely to the larders of the Irish people in the early days, and for the hunting of these and other wild animals, a variety of different breeds of hounds were developed.

But the Wolfhound was the only breed that achieved fame in foreign lands; and for this particular breed, Ireland was famous throughout the world, as then known. It is recorded that Henry VIII and the good Queen Bess both received presents of Irish Wolfdogs, and the first-named monarch sent them as presents to notabilities in other lands.”

So we were looking for a hound of the type that would have been the model for the Massereene stature. A large powerful hound standing near to the ideal ‘yard at the shoulder’ that one could imagine capable of overpowering a wolf; a dog that one could imagine being fast and agile enough to be a ‘hound of the chase’; and one that would be noble enough in appearance to be representative of the famous Irish hounds that were so sought after internationally throughout history.

Tim takes up the story about how he guided us to select ‘Aramis’:

Aramis Aramis is just 21 months old. He is completely black, bar the white flash on his chest. He was one of a litter of four, all males and equally black. These were the first black Wolfhounds that we have bred, and this is going back twelve generations. Curiously, his mother is a pale red wheaten and his sire is a dark red brindle, so we

cannot be sure who is responsible, but we approve the result. The sire is French, and is nobly named “Chambord du Grand Chien de Culann”, a tall,.imposing, houndy fellow, to whom I awarded Best of Breed in 2010 at the World Dog Show in Bratislava. To acknowledge the French connection, we have called our quartet after the Three Musketeers - Aramis, Athos, Porthos – and, of course, D’Artagnan. Aramis’ dam is our Gulliagh Ginny, daughter of a famous American male. So Aramis does truly represent the diaspora of the Wolfhound throughout the world.

400th anniversary special classes for Irish Wolfhounds sponsored by Chudleys is taking place at the Pedigree Dog Show organised by the Northern Ireland Field & Show Society at the fair on Sunday 8th July and you will be able to see up to 20 or more of these fine animals.

Antrim ‘Jewel of the Lough’ The Borough of Antrim has added yet another gem to its collection. Antrim Castle Gardens have been returned to their former glory and reopened following a £6m restoration project thanks to generous support from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The 400 year old Gardens are one of the most unique and historically intact in the entire British Isles. All the buildings including Clotworthy House, the original stables of the Castle, have been restored and set around a beautifully landscaped courtyard complete with Massereene Hound statue, To tickle the taste buds, a new Garden Coffee Shop opens daily serving a range of delicious, affordable food. The temptation continues in the Garden shop where you will find a wide choice of gifts ranging from local crafts and toys to mouth-watering foodstuffs.

At every turn in the Gardens, you will find features that will fascinate and intrigue you. So, come along and be prepared to be enchanted.

Aramis

Why Aramis?

Why did we choose Aramis as the model for this painting? He has size, big like all Wolfhounds but standing just a yard high at the shoulder he is above average. But size is not everything in the breed, and more importantly we feel that he portrays many of the essential elements that we look for in this galloping hound - long legs, a deep chest, a comparatively long back with an arched loin and powerful hindquarters, altogether showing a nice balance between gracefulness and power. He has the typical Wolfhound head - long but strong - and a gentle expression, somewhat wistful.

After many visits to Clotworthy House and many photographs taken of the house, grounds and Aramis, County Antrim artist John R. Moore has produced what we consider to be a very fitting tribute to mark the anniversary of the carving of the Massereene Hound, as it has been moved to its current and hopefully final location, serenely guarding the fine new gardens at Clotworthy House.

The painting of the Massereene Hound will be unveiled at the Game Fair at Shanes Castle and then, hang on loan, in the gallery at Clotworthy House.

And from a legendary hound to real hounds As part of the celebration of the Massereene Hound’s

The River Maine at Shanes Castle Randalstown While you are in the area, why not use the Antrim Borough Heritage Guide to visit some of the many notable buildings, churches and places of interest including Antrim Round Tower which was built around the 10th century and is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. The oldest standing Courthouse in Ireland was recently restored by the Council in Antrim town centre and is now a venue for a wide range of cultural activities and popular entertainment – stop by for a coffee or to browse the visitors information centre.

For those who like to be ‘on the go’, some of the finest sporting and leisure activities in Northern Ireland are on offer in the Borough. At Antrim Forum visitors can enjoy high quality facilities including a state of the art Fitness Suite and Spa, Tenpin bowling and children’s soft-play adventure area as well as swimming and ball sports.

Golfers of all handicaps from throughout the world Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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keep coming back to enjoy the Borough’s courses at Allen Park, Hilton Templepatrick and Massereene Golf Club. Dramatic challenges and delightful scenery make each round memorable. And on the lighter side, there is fun for all the family at Junction Jacks, a pirate themed adventure golf course at Junction One. Where the waters of Lough Neagh lap the shore you’ll find the Lough Shore Park. The attractive surroundings make it the perfect spot to while away a few hours enjoying a picnic or feeding the ducks and swans.

Following the shoreline of the Lough, travel to World of Owls in Randalstown, Northern Ireland’s only owl, bird of prey and exotic conservation education centre or travel south to Clementsmount Fun Farm where children can cuddle young animals or enjoy pony riding, pedal go-karting and crazy golf.

For some retail therapy you can visit Northern Ireland’s largest international outlet centre, Junction One, on the edge of Antrim town. In the town itself, Castle Mall offers many familiar high street brands while the other towns and villages have a wide range of independent retailers.

The standard of visitor accommodation in the Borough is second to none. From four star hotels to quality guesthouses and B&Bs, there’s something to suit everyone’s budget.

Antrim Round Tower So come and visit soon. There really is something for everyone in Antrim Borough… the Jewel of the Lough.

For further information on accommodation, attractions and activities in Antrim Borough, please contact: Old Courthouse Information Centre, Market Square, Antrim, T: 028 9442 8331, E: info@antrim.gov.uk W: www.antrim.gov.uk

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John T. Malone profiles

Liam Briody Ireland’s longest serving Professional Gundog Trainer

A

t a recent trial in Slane Castle I met Liam Briody, who was surrounded by four black Labradors, needless to say all impeccably well behaved. Looking sprightly and fit, he briefed the forces of his picking up team and detailed them their assignments.

Straight talking is one of Liam’s strong points, and he is very adept at getting his message across. He told his picking up team “Broadmeadows have their annual trial here today. These people are here to compete and enjoy themselves at their sport. We are here to do our job of picking up game and to assist the Game Keeper. Each party can have a goods day sport without interfering with the other. You all know your assignments, so have a good day and enjoy yourselves”. Clear and precise, and totally characteristic of the man. This then is Liam Briody, Ireland’s longest serving professional gundog trainer.

Liam Briody grew up in Slane, Co. Meath in a home where his late father always kept a dog of some sort.

Liam, even as a child, had a great love of the countryside and spent a lot of time there in the company of his dogs. From an early age, he would buy the Shooting Times magazine and was fascinated by the reports on Field Trials in Great Britain. He recalls fondly how he trained his first Labrador when he was only eight years old and sold it for £5. Following this 50

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

lucrative transaction, he obtained a spaniel puppy from a lady in Castlepollard and, having trained it, sold it for £10. Following on in this vein, he trained and sold another Labrador for £75.

Mr. Briody Senior was less than enthused about his son’s entrepreneurial spirit and felt that there had to be something illegal about his son’s canine activities to generate such revenue. The average weekly wage then was about £2.10s.0p in old money (£2.50) per week at the time. Mr. Briody Senior vowed that there would be no more dogs permitted for fear of losing his house, or the authorities descending upon him. He need not have worried unduly. Young Liam Briody had discovered his natural affinity with dogs and his talents were in popular demand.

When Liam was in his early 20s he relates that he was very fortunate to meet Mr. Pat Mc Cormack from Co. Monaghan. The sense of gratitude and respect which Liam feels towards this wonderful man is very evident.

Mr. Pat Mc Cormack still resides today outside Monaghan and is 86 years young. This mentoring friendship was to have a huge effect on the young Liam, and delve him deeper into the world of gundogs and field trials. A present from Pat Mc Cormack of a 10 months old Springer Spaniel bitch, Labrette Queenie by FTCh Barney’s Blunder out of a grand-daughter of Diana’s Dew Sele began Liam’s trialling career. He ran this spaniel in a few trials with little success due mainly to a lack of access to a constant supply of game.

However, he would maintain that this little bitch taught him a lot more than he ever taught her and they were a formidable team at working tests where they enjoyed much success. This little spaniel subsequently produced FTCh Broadbank Rip On of Glendevitt.

Notable milestones So it was that Liam’s career as a professional gundog trainer had taken root and he also became involved in field trials for many years. During the course of his career he has made up four Field Trial Champion Labrador Retrievers, and been awarded second place in the IKC Retriever Championship on two occasions.

Some of Liam’s more notable Retrievers were FTCh Broadbank Suntan, who was second in the Championship in 1982; Polworth Bara who was second in the Championship in 1989. FTCh Broadville Cath; FT Ch Simington Brownie; and FTCh Simington Sally were also exceptional Retrievers trained and run by Liam.

Liam Briody has trained and trialled many Retrievers and Spaniels other than those mentioned above which have won Novice and Open Stakes but, as Liam was a full time professional trainer, were sold on to keep the show on the road. Some of these include the following Retrievers: FTW Bylmeadow Sweep; FTW Staxigo Sheena; FTW Whinwreg Bell; and ESS FTW Broadbank Attaboy.

Liam has judged the Irish Retriever Championship on four occasions and has represented his country numerous times at the CLA Game Fair in Great Britain and at Game Fairs throughout Ireland at venues such as Clandeboye Estate, Shanes Castle, Adare Manor, and Slane Castle both as a Team Member and Captain.

Dedication and many long hours in the countryside Liam would contend that his success to date is a combination of dedication and many long hours spent out in the countryside during all kinds of weather with his dogs. Liam’s natural ability, wisdom and understanding of dogs create that bond which make man and dog a team. Appreciation and understanding of each particular dog is the key to success. Liam says: “You must understand and know when to take a break from training and, if your bond is true with your dog, he will tell you the answers to these questions.” Liam believes that the ultimate test for a professional dog trainer is the battleground of the Field Trial, where both trainer and dog as a team will have an opportunity to display their talents. I think it is only fair to say that Liam Briody as a handler and his dogs have done this on many occasions.

I have known Liam Briody for almost twenty years and have observed him in action with his dogs on many

occasions. He is always a joy and a pleasure to watch, I have learned a lot from him, and only wish I had more time to put it into practice. From picking up at Slane Castle Estate with a team of young dogs, to imparting his skills at training classes to novice handlers, his air of calm controlled composure never alters. There is an assuredness about his methods, and an aura of understanding of the canine mind, which dogs instinctively respect; Liam maintains respect is crucial.

“Unless your dog respects you, you have little chance of influencing his behaviour to your requirements.” He believes in the basics. He allows a puppy to be a puppy and treats him accordingly. He does not rush things. He has an analytical mind and believes in solving problems and not creating them. Over the years I have spoken to many people who have referred to Liam Briody as ‘a genius with a dog,’ or ‘he has that special touch,’ and they are probably right. Liam has said that dedication and understanding have contributed to the success of ‘Ireland’s most popular professional dog trainer over the past four decades.’ Julius Caesar once said: “Experience is the teacher of all things,” and I firmly believe that the experience Liam has accumulated over a lifetime of handling dogs is what makes him the top gundog trainer in Ireland today.

Liam Briody loves what he does for a living and he is quick to acknowledge those who have helped him along the way. Considering the brevity of this article I can only mention some of the people to whom he expresses his appreciation. As mentioned previously, Pat Mc Cormack holds a special place in his heart. As we all know, Liam has been associated with the Slane Castle Shoot for over thirty years, a liaison which has afforded him the facility to train and work his dogs under live fire conditions and to forge their futures as reliable gundogs. However, it is not all play and Liam would cover high mileage on shanks’ mare around the Estate, dogging in for months on end. He wishes to acknowledge a debt of gratitude to Lord Henry Mountcharles and the Slane Castle Shooting Syndicate under the Captaincy of Declan Lennon. He expresses admiration for and thanks to Dermot Shevlin, the Head Keeper at Slane Castle, and also the Under Keeper Alan McCabe for all their assistance to him over the years. He fondly remembers all the people he has met in Slane and says that he often remembers Timmy Kidman, the previous Game Keeper at Slane, who was tragically murdered on the Estate.

On a final note I should add that there is always a twinkle in Liam Briody’s eyes which suggests that tomorrow is another day and he has a few more potential champion dogs to get ready for action.

Editor’s Note: The author, John T. Malone, is Vice Chairman of the Retriever Championship Committee.

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By David Stroud

The Dublin Gun-trade Circa 1796 he previous article covered the 1794 Dublin Trade Directory, which identified a selection of the gunmakers operating at this time. If we now progress to the 1796 Directory, two years before the rebellion in Ireland, it can be seen that the number of listed gunmakers in Dublin had grown steadily to twenty-three and the demand for weapons for both the military and public sectors was strong.

T

Gunmakers listed in the Merchants & Trade Directory for 1796 Clarke Devereux Devine Dobson Eames Edwards Fowler Gray Guinness Hutchinson Kinder Langston McCormick McDermott Meredith Morton Muley Phillips Powell Rigby John Tomlinson Trulock Wallace

Nicholas35 Capel Street Michael 3 Blackall Row Thomas 194 Abbey Street James 32 Skinner Row Elizabeth 1 Duke Street William 1 Palace Street Thomas 121 Capel Street John 2 Bride Street Richard 107 James’s Street Michael 8 Dame Street Matthew1 Camden Street John 22 Eustace Street Robert 23 Abbey Street Farrell 35 Mary’s Abbey Charles 45 Fishamble Street William 28 Castle Street Daniel 28 Parliament Street Thomas 43 Gt. Ship Street Benjamin 159 Abbey Street 19 Suffolk Street Robert 123 Capel Street Thomas 50 Barrack Street Samuel 22 Eustace Street

This garrison city saw British officers making requests for holster pistols and of course the pistol of honour, the dueller.

Law and order was still in its infancy and the new prison, Kilmainham had only recently been opened. Therefore, weapons for personal protection including pocket and overcoat pistols were sought. Finally, the ongoing militarisation in Ireland led to a demand for illegally owned weapons. Certain gunmakers were republican sympathisers and during the rebellion were taken to the Pigeon House within Dublin Castle and, if found guilty for supplying arms, paid the ultimate price. In referring to M.S Dudley Westropp’s list of gunmakers published in the Journal of the Arms & Armour No 1, Vol 2, 1957, evidently many gunmakers died in 1798, or were known to have been taken to the Pigeon House and never reappeared.

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An 18th century gunmaker at work.

The need to protect the mail coaches meant a good demand for blunderbusses and they abounded. The passengers within this early form of transportation carried travelling pistols to protect their personal belongings and possibly their lives.

An Advertisement for the Coaching Service from Clonmel to various destinations with the benefit of half price for those travelling outside.

Whenever, the historian looks to piece together fragments of information on any subject the journey is long, frustrating and invariably ends in the proverbial cul-de-sac. The spelling of our forefathers’ names for example altered and the Gunmakers of Ireland were no exception. Referring to the 1796 Directory, we find Thomas Devine trading at 194 Abbey Street. However, in the earlier Merchants and Trade Directory of 1768, he is known as Thomas Divine of Abbey St, this time spelled with an ‘i.’

Many other gunmakers suffered the same fate, thanks to the idiosyncrasies of printers, engravers and editors. Having seen

the two directories we can now be certain this is the same gunmaker and add his full trading address details as Thomas Devine, Abbey Street 1768-1774; No 3 Abbey Street 1775-1783 and finally at 194 Abbey Street 1784-1803.

Trade Directory of 1768 showing “Divine” rather than the later “Devine.”

Interestingly, this is the first trade directory where the merchants and traders are listed under profession rather than alphabetically by name. However, the following year they reverted to the alphabetical listing and it wasn’t until much later that directories were listed by profession.

The British Government had introduced various gun licences in Ireland during the eighteen century in an effort to control private gun ownership, yet the markets for military and private weapons remained buoyant. Along with the gunmakers listed there were a whole array of ‘jobbing shops’ and material suppliers supporting the trade i.e. barrel makers, stockers, action filers, engravers, steel and wood suppliers. It should also be remembered that not all gunmakers were recorded in the Trade Directories and before 1750 many of the engineers of the day were known simply as ‘smiths’ i.e.

Blacksmiths or Whitesmiths.

longest term between 1812 to 1824 was at 29 Capel Street. The entry for 1815 has him listed at number 20 Capel Street but this must have been a printing error. His final entry for 1825 found him trading at 33 Capel Street. Possibly a door number change rather than full move?

Other gunmakers who utilised this style of label were Nicholas Clarke, 35, Capel St ( 1799-1804) and John Silk, Leinster Street and finally 195 Abbey Street (1800-1805). John Gray appears to have started business in 1783 at 21 Blind Quay.

Blind Quay being the thoroughfare leading to the Royal Exchange and was ultimately renamed Upper and Lower Exchange Street in circa 1785. The Royal Dublin Society cited John Gray as the maker of a superimposed gun operated by two locks and a single trigger in this year. He remained at the renamed 21 Lower Exchange Street until 1793, thereafter being listed at 13 Lower Exchange Street. In 1795 while at this address he changed his title to Patent Gunmaker. By1796 his trading address had altered to 2 Bride Street and again changed to Darby Square for a two year period 1799 -1800. Thereafter 1801-1804 he returned to Bride Street which was now No 1. He now listed himself as ‘Gun and Jack maker.’ During the period 1804-1814 he doesn’t appear in any of the trade directories yet a John Gray reappears in 1815 through to 1830 at 46 Moore Street.

John Langston emerges for the first time in the 1796 Directory, interestingly at an address also listed for Samuel Wallace, 22 Eustace Street. This begs the question what the connection was between these two makers. Were they merely utilising the same workshops, or was it that Langston was apprenticed to Wallace? Another later gunmaker Robert Willett also appears at 22 Eustace Street in 1799 and thereafter the address alters to 23 Eustace Street.

Robert McCormick was the son of the Belfast gunmaker, John McCormick who, on 1st November 1794, moved his business from Belfast to 23 Abbey Street, Dublin. Robert McCormick was renowned for making fine quality duelling pistols and produced some ten pairs per year. These were invariably numbered and a list of known serial numbers and dates can be seen below.

Gunstocks Advertisement from the Dublin Evening Post, 25 July 1780 Thomas Fowler traded at 121 Capel Street from 1796 through to 1800 and at 14 Capel Street from 1801-1805. A trade label for this period can be seen below. From 1806 he would be found at 18 Capel Street where he remained until 1811. His

Underside of McCormick barrel showing date and serial number AD 1793 and No 69.

Trade label for Thomas Fowler. Period 1801-1805. Detailing Nocks Patent Breech and the fact that Fowler produced duelling pistols.

Farrell McDermott appears for the first time in this 1796 directory and therefore we can assume he began business around 1795 at 35 Mary’s Abbey. He traded from 1797 to 1811 at No 2 Abbey Street and at No 1 Abbey Street from 1811 to 1827. The change of address was likely to be merely a door number alteration due to development in Abbey Street.

McDermott, produced saw handled duellers utilising the Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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French style of cock, so fashionable in Ireland around 1820.

death in 1796, whereupon his wife Isabella took on the business. It appears that 1797 is the last entry for her at 159 Great Britain Street. A cylinder from a Hall & Powell flintlock 3 shot carbine is shown below.

Robert Tomlinson appears in the 1783 directory at 11 Liffey Street and thereafter at 123 Capel Street until 1804. Tomlinson is noted for having produced flintlock pistols utilising the magazine primer patented by Thomas Pattison & Co. This invention was an attempt to improve the firing rate of this ignition system but was eclipsed by the introduction of the percussion system in 1807 (Forsyth). It does have a similar application as the ‘Scentbottle’ which was patented by Forsyth.

Farrell McDermott trade label for the period 1811 - 1827.

No 1 Abbey Street.

Pair of Saw Handled Duelling Pistols with ‘French Cocks’ by Farrell Mc Dermott Circa 1820.

Benjamin Powell first appears in the 1785 Directory in partnership with Joseph Hall at 149 Great Britain Street; Joseph Hall having been in trade for the previous year alone at this address. These makers were prominent in the gun trade at this time due to them being engaged in the development of the flintlock revolver. Their partnership lasted possibly three years. They are listed in both the 1785 and 1786 directories but are omitted in the 1787 and 1788. Benjamin Powell reappears in 1789 at 159 Great Britain Street and remains in there until his

Three Shot Cylinder for a Flintlock Carbine developed by Hall & Powell, 149 Great Britain St, Dublin circa 1785.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Thomas Pattisons Patented Magazine Primer Circa 1805.

This frizzen and combined powder hopper mechanism charged the priming pan and marginally reduced the loading procedure.

Thomas Trulock, Barrack Street, whose line of the Trulock family would ultimately trade as Trulock Brothers, was the grandson of John Trulock, a London gunmaker who established the Trulock name in Ireland circa 1705. Two lines of the family came through the gun trade and this Thomas was possibly apprenticed to his uncle Thomas Trulock, the first son of John. This side of the family evolved through W. Trulock, Trulock & Son and ultimately Trulock, Harriss & Richardson.

For further information regarding the Trulock family please refer to www.trulock.info. In addition, Matthew Schneiderman in The Gun Report of June 2010 wrote a very good article on this dynasty of gunmakers from their founding in London in the late 17th century.

I plan to take my next excursion through the directory of 1806. In the meantime, for further reading on the gunmakers of Ireland please refer to ‘Irish Gunmakers’ by Richard Garrett, available from ramrodantiques.co.uk or telephone David Stroud on 07818 470123. My thanks to L.M & Eric Gould for photography and historical data.

Looking for a new gun There is no better place than the Gunmakers Row at the Irish Game Fair at Shanes Castle 7th and 8th July

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By Simon Everett

An Early Morning Foray I

set the alarm for 6.00 am to give me plenty of time to get some breakfast and be out to the wood by first light. I just took Fly and the Theoben SLR .22 with two loaded magazines and about 20 spare pellets in a pouch. Well, you never know! We arrived at the parking place in good time. The crows weren’t even starting to call whilst I was getting my boots on and organising myself. Fly just sat in the boot patiently, like she does. She is old enough and experienced enough now to know that she will get plenty of freedom to sniff around later.

As we started off across the field to the far side of the dog leg of the wood, the eastern sky was lightening and the crows were noisily leaving their roost, chattering amongst themselves like a crowd of commuters on the 6.45 to Euston. There had been a sharp frost and everything on the ground was frozen, so we crunched and cracked our way to the edge of the wood. Fly was allowed to go ahead and stretch her legs without control, other than the odd hand signal or facial expression, she would be reigned in once we got towards the wood and started to stalk.

As we crossed the fence bordering the wood, I heard 56

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

a few pigeons clap as they exploded away from the tops of the trees they had chosen for their nightly refuge. I steadied myself and glassed the silhouetted tree tops with my binoculars for the dark shape of a lingerer.

There was one! It was still hunched up, breast facing me at an angle to the right at about 60 yards. I needed to close the gap. We had hardly stepped inside the wood, surely it wouldn’t stay there as I made my way from tree to tree in its direction. Very slowly, easing my weight onto the forward foot, rolling the sole of each boot as it made contact with the ground, I managed to get to the first tree without the pigeon so much as stirring. Fly had been given the hand signal to sit and she remained motionless where I had started from, her sharp eyes on the tree tops, watching for signs of what might lead to breakfast!

I watched the pigeon through my binoculars for a few moments, to check that it wasn’t alerted to my position.

I had another 10 yards at least to go before I dare take on a shot. There was a fallen tree to negotiate between me and the next suitable tree. I made my way carefully, like a heron in a pool, across the bottom of the wood, taking care to lessen the noise as the frosted leaves broke, like fracturing glass, under the gently placed weight of my feet. Around me the sounds of the woods stirring into

could slot a pellet through. I lined up the cross hairs on the one part of the pigeon that gave me an unobstructed killing shot, just by its thighs. At the angle I was now at the pellet would drill its way into the heart and lung area, ensuring a humane finish. I took a breath, slowly I let my breath out, which drifted away in as a cloud of steam, and slipped the safety forward, which handily resides just ahead of the trigger. With the crosshair steady on aim I stopped breathing out and tightened my squeeze. The rifle jumped, there was a I watched the pigeon through my binoculars for a few moments. dull thump and the pigeon life, a couple of cock pheasants called away down the dropped like a stone, crashing through some fallen other end, crows were cawing in unison and now the branches to the ground. Fly had her breakfast after all. geese, which had arrived from the North just before the I gave a low whistle and she skipped over to me with frosty weather, were honking as they considered the her tail wagging. I sent her to fetch the bird and prospect of leaving the water to fly inland to feed. All the considered my next move. It was still semi-dark so I time my cover of darkness was ebbing away as the sun decided to head for some tall trees that were starting to slowly started to rise above the horizon. I pressed on, glow gold on their very tops. I reasoned that after a cold keeping my face looking at the floor and doing my best night the pigeons would probably want to warm up in not to make any sudden movements or scrunch the the sunshine while they waited for the crops to thaw. It frosted leaves too loudly. I thought I sounded like a herd of elephants, but the pigeon didn’t stir and I made my chosen shooting point.

I stopped breathing out and tightened my squeeze Now I had to consider the shot, were there any twigs in the way?

I carefully searched the path of the pellet to the pigeon for any signs of obstructions and although there was a larch between us, I found a clear view that I Lining up the cross hairs on the pigeon.

Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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wasn’t far and we made good progress. A natural hide was available in the form of a young fir tree and there was a bigger tree I could lean on. Fly and I settled ourselves in. Within minutes a rook alighted in a larch, no more than 30 yards away, which is lucky as that is what the SLR is sighted in at. I didn’t hesitate, I just lifted the rifle, took aim and added the corvid to the bag.

Although it too just fell out of the tree, I found it difficult to spot and Fly doesn’t like retrieving crows.

The original plan had to be amended because the pigeons were indeed sunning themselves, but not at the trees I was under. There are some tall beech trees on top of the hill and they were covered in the grey fellows, but there is no cover under them. However, there were some squirrels barking in the sunshine, so we off to stalk them.

I hung the birds in a convenient hazel, to be collected later, and set off in the direction of the squirrels. A skein of geese approached from the West, honking to each other as they skimmed over the tree tops, I was in my camouflage fleece, was wearing a face scrim and multicam hat yet they still flared as they came over, geese have such sharp eyes.

The squirrel was nicely retrieved by Fly.

but I heard a squirrel digging through the leaves somewhere up ahead. With Fly staying close we stalked forwards carefully, going from tree to tree, watching and listening. The sound gave me a direction and then I spotted him, a big buck squirrel on the ground digging I spotted a big buck squirrel for buried treasure. He was just out of range and half As we hauled ourselves up towards the top of the hill, concealed, but the flicking of his tail in the sunlight gave a pair of peregrine falcons circled over, screeching to his position away. It is amazing how movement betrays each other. I could clearly see the bars on the chest of the position. female. Several squirrels were active, but they When his head was down I moved forward slowly, scampered through the trees well out of range and they leaving Fly behind. I got to the base of a big ash about 45 didn’t stop for a moment. Getting a shot on them was yards from him. With that he hopped behind a big beech impossible. I stalked quietly along the top of the wood, tree with a load of thin growth around its base. I took my the sun had thawed the leaves and I could walk quietly chance and with the beech giving me the cover I moved now with the sun on my back. From their lofty perches to another tree and crouched, waiting with the rifle in everything has a grandstand view of the woodland floor, my shoulder, half raised. The range was about 35 yards as the squirrel came out from behind the beech, but his head was obscured. As it lifted its head I squeezed the shot away, just at the exact same time as the squirrel hopped forwards. Instead of the pellet finding its mark on the forehead it buried itself deep into the chest, bowling the squirrel head over heels.

Fly dived forward on the stricken squirrel and ragged it. It was dead anyway, but she likes to make sure. That was the shot of the morning.

We were satisfied and wended our way back to the car, happy to be out at the Happy to be out at the best time of the day, bag size was immaterial. best time of the day.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

By Graham Cox

Putting On the Style

Running for Ireland at Blenheim Tommy McMinn sends Rybrae Tapas Lady with some style.

L

ike motherhood and apple pie, style is a ‘good thing.’ In fact, provided it’s not at the expense of substance, more of it is assumed to be better. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to define. Indeed, no subject is more prone to the ‘I know it when I see it even if I can’t define it’ syndrome. So, do we have to admit defeat and concede that it may just be something that is in the ‘eye of the beholder?’

Certainly, different breeds of gundog have their characteristic ways of working and Field Trial judges are required to have a good working knowledge of the breed or breeds they are assessing. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t offer some general observations about style: and we’re likely to find that the achievement of a unity between form and function lies at the heart of what we want to say.

It’s the right time to be considering the subject because, of course, many folk’s opportunity to see top gundogs in action will be at Country Fairs and, especially, in competitions like the International at the CLA Game Fair. All such competitions are exercises in simulation and, amongst other artificial features, they involve a characteristic element of unreality so far as 60

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

handlers are concerned. They are typically in a position to be confident and prompt in handling because they know, more or less, where a dummy has fallen or been placed. That induces a confidence which is far harder to achieve when working with the uncertainties of game.

The two-way communication between dog and handler, so essential to genuinely stylish work, is, in a Gundog Working Test, easily distorted in favour of the handler.

And in such circumstances there is a greater chance that those watching will see style as manifested in one quality of work alone: speed. Nothing could be more misleading.

Of course, all things being equal, the more briskly a dog goes about its work the more pleasing its performance is likely to be. But all things in the field are seldom equal so that statement needs to be carefully qualified. The vagaries of scent in conditions where the handler is in no position to suppose that he or she knows better than the dog where game is to be found mean that the handler has much more consciously to interpret the work of the dog. In such circumstances something less than ‘best speed’ is often essential to an effective gamefinding partnership.

Thirty years have passed since I travelled, on a blisteringly hot day, to Tilehurst near Reading to talk to a man about the early days of Golden Retriever

breeding. Early in his career Albert Pattle had been Keeper at Nuneham Park in Oxfordshire and, when I saw him, this sprightly octogenarian had a lively memory which totally belied his years.

The nearest thing to an acceptable definition of style As we sat looking through marvellously evocative old trial cards he recalled the 1937 Retriever Championship when F.T.Ch. Haulstone Larry became the first Golden (though only three generations from an interbred litter he was eligible for registration as a pure bred Golden) to take that top honour and we started to consider the elements of style in spaniels and retrievers. It was then that he recounted what, for me, became the nearest thing to an acceptable definition of style that I had heard.

“Style,” Captain Medlicott, one of the great handlers of the inter-war years and a Championship judge, had once said to him, “is that which enables you to see what the dog is doing.” What is good about that, you might ask, since it seems a rather vacuous claim? Well, it nicely avoids drawing attention to any particular characteristics and puts all its emphasis just where it should be: on the Declan Boyle makes the all important decision to handle Newcam Gunner in mutually supportive relationship that the Gundog International at Blenheim in 2011. ideally exists between dog and handler. Style is crucially in ‘pacing yourself’ is far better. A dog which can bound up with scenting conditions and the great point discriminate between varying conditions and adjust its about a dog working in a stylish manner is that its strategy accordingly is likely to be an experienced and handler is able to ‘read it’ and draw appropriate relatively mature animal and to nurture a young and impetuous dog dedicated to life in the fast lane to that conclusions.

It’s hardly surprising that there are resonances with state where it can begin to show a mastery of such ‘style’ in other areas of activity. Evelyn Waugh, for subtleties is one of the great challenges that training instance, in ‘Books on Trial’ characterised it this way: presents. Many dogs - still less handlers - simply do not “Properly understood style is not a seductive decoration have the temperament to attain it.

Crucially it depends on being able to continually put added to a functional structure; it is of the essence of a the young dog in a position where it can learn for itself work of art.” And if that seems no less annoyingly elusive it does make precisely the same point as and, far more difficult, resisting the temptation always to Medlicott’s one-liner; namely that style is not some sort intervene when it is readily apparent to the handler, of extra bonus but is integral to what constitutes good though not yet to the dog, what needs to be done. If that work. It’s what makes really effective communication sort of authority is invoked too often in dummy training where the handler does know best the dog may never possible. develop the capacity to communicate effectively in game situations where he or she doesn’t. We should never One of the great challenges Speed is not irrelevant, but the term is misleading. forget that fast and flashy work and stylish work can be Pace, with its implication of an element of discretion, as very different things.

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The very best, of course, put speed and style together in a spectacular way and, though we may be seeing them in Game Fair competition, their records in the shooting field show that style in the proper sense is integral to their work. I well remember, in the 1980s, Michael McGivern’s Labrador Int. F.T.Ch. Ben Neagh and John Ligget’s Springer F.T.Ch. Noreside Jester: both stalwarts of successful Irish teams. In the following decade the Springers Int. F.T.Ch. Birdrowe Miss O’Lene handled by Tim Crothers and, later, Norman Blakeney’s Int. F.T.Ch. Phillip’s Girl, who was a Championship winner in 1997/98, were especially memorable.

So, if you’re watching star performers this summer look for that sureness of communication between dog and handler which is the true measure of style. At its best it’s an exciting spectacle.

What getting it right looks like!

Ireland’s Captain Willie Edgar with trophies including the one for the best hunting spaniel.

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From Frank Brophy

Well, is everything ‘rosy’ for the Republic’s firearms legislation?

N

ot too many hunters or shooting folk today are fully conversant with the 1972 One Month (Firearms) Temporary Custody Order, that came into force back then and lasted for thirty-two years! Different versions are in circulation and this is understandable because most people who discuss the subject were not born when it was implemented. You had to have been around in those days and directly affected by it to realise exactly what was involved. Having been one of the victims of what was basicly a confidence trick by the Government, those events and what followed, are as fresh in my mind as if it all had happened only a few weeks ago.

Without repeating the obvious, the country was embroiled in turmoil even before 1972 and no-one knew from day to day what fresh mayhem the following 24 hours might bring. This provided an ideal excuse for a clampdown by people in high places who, even back then, had Frank Brophy is a widely respected writer and commentator with a an ongoing anti licensed firearms agenda. There’s lifetime’s experience in the shooting field absolutely no doubt that the latter was a carry-over from The classification for handguns did not differentiate 1922 when the Free State’s fledgling Civil Service was between air guns and cartridge firing handguns - it staffed largely by individuals who had worked in the included everything! While all of this came as quite a previous administration and brought their baggage with shock to law abiding citizens who possessed legally held them to the new employment. A brief glance at the anti- firearms, it was taken at face value that a one month firearm ethos of the British Civil Service following the temporary custody order meant exactly that - one shock 1917 Revolution in the Tsar’s Russia will confirm month. Unfortunately and unknown to us, the the mindset of staff in Dublin who, while they may have authorities had other plans. When the calendar month changed their employer, their prejudices remained. passed and there was no sign of the firearms being Despite this attitude and a bloody civil war, the people’s returned, I was one of many who enquired from the elected representatives in the Dail saw fit to implement a Gardai about the delay. The response came as a shock.

1925 Firearms Act which put a system in place allowing Basicly, what was said to me was that since all firearms individuals with genuine reasons for owning licensed certificates had expired on the 31 July 1972, the day firearms, to do so. Despite the wisdom displayed and before the order coming into force, there was no voted into law by the legislators, there were those among requirement or obligation on the Gardai to return them Garda and Civil Service management who believed that because the owners no longer held current certificates.

No firearms were returned. Within a matter of days an they knew best.

Justice Minister Desmond O’Malley implemented the Army lorry arrived at the local Garda Station and relevant section of the Firearms Act and the Order came soldiers began stacking centre-fire rifles in the back. into force on 1August 1972. This obliged certificate “Stacking” is an understatement - they were actually holders of all rifles in excess of .22 calibre and certificate throwing expensive, privately owned rifles in heaps holders of handguns irrespective of calibre, to surrender onto the wooden floor of the Bedford, as if clearing up a their firearms at the local Garda Station immediately. battlefield. I complained to a Garda and he immediately 64

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

explained to the Officer in charge that these were privately owned firearms and the Army could find itself at the wrong end of a legal claim for damages. Little did we know then that our sporting equipment was about to disappear for a thirty-two year duration and sadly, far too many shooting folk would not live to see the return of their private property.

Confidence trick Did confiscating legally held firearms save the nation from perdition? While no-one could ever know the answer; what we do know is that a minor collection of sporting rifles and pistols, many of them bordering on antique status, was hardly likely to provide the balance of power in any conflict on this island, assuming that somehow, each and every one was collectively stolen from their lawful owners. We also know that we were the victims of a massive confidence trick perpetrated by the very people that we were brought up to respect and trust. Alas, all appeals fell on deaf ears; quite literally noone wanted to know. TDs were not about to be seen rocking the Ship on State on a ‘security’ issue, shooting organisations and the Trade threatened legal action, while others spoke about having contacts who would see us right. Nothing ever happened. Throughout the ensuing years I was one of many who sought information from the Department of Justice about the return of our private property, invariably being referred to the Garda Commissioner. A number of Commissioners managed to avoid replying to my written questions and probably those of others. A few rifles in excess of .22 calibre eventually trickled into circulation for humane deer culling - the .22/250 calibre frangible bullet permitted to the majority was not a suitable round for that purpose. The years rolled on and in the late 1970s I bought a 7.62mm NATO calibre Target Rifle in the Isle of Man. To this day I don’t understand how I managed to secure an Import Permit for it - it’s likely that someone in the Department of Justice just acted strictly in compliance with the ‘Law of the Land.’

On arrival in Ireland it went into storage in Garda Headquarters in the Phoenix Park. Throughout the bad years, a handful of shooters managed to keep up a standard of sorts in pistol shooting. I kept a target pistol in storage in Wales and used it whenever I could. Others did likewise, storing firearms in Britain, the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland.

In retrospect, it’s almost unbelievable that the Gardai and Department of Justice got away with it for so long. I clearly recall being told solemnly, many times, by the Department that the Minister renewed the Temporary Custody Order on an annual basis. Only later did I realise that this was absolute nonsense - legislation for this does not exist, and no ‘Orders’ were ever signed. On 66

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

another occasion in the early 1990s, I became aware that the Department had issued two Import Permits for handguns. On telephoning to request similar treatment for my pistol in Wales, I was told that the Department definitely did not issue any permits. They might have been Army or Garda firearms, it was said. On repeating this to the source of my information, I was given the names and addresses of the two individuals , the makes and serial numbers of the firearms and most damningly of all, the numbers of the two Import Permits along with the name of the person who had signed them. Guess who? The individual in the Department who had misled me. All of this eventually led to my two successful High Court challenges in 2004 and 2008 respectively with NARGC backing, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Thirty-two year’s of skullduggery was finally over.

Shocking admissions Or is it? In January of this year I sat at the back of the room along with NARGC Director Des Crofton during a High Court hearing spread over two weeks.

Three test cases representing a total of almost 170 others were being heard, all relating to refusals to renew existing firearms certificates. We listened in amazement as two Garda Chief Superintendents were flushed out from behind their official veneer by Senior Counsel Mr. Michael O’Higgins. Judge Hedigan expressed his deep concern at what he was hearing and instructed the State to consider it’s position. The total number of cases were conceded by the State, with full costs being borne by the cash-strapped Taxpayer. National Newspapers gave considerable front page coverage to shocking admissions such as applying an unlawful blanket policy, claims about stolen handguns that didn’t stand examination and the altering of official documents after the proceedings had commenced. Serious stuff indeed.

Were the perpetrators censured, demoted or chastised?

One retired shortly afterwards - this was due anyway and the other was promoted to Assistant Commissioner with Government approval. The current Legislators don’t appear to be too disturbed by these courtroom revelations - Education Minister Quinn told the Senate shortly afterwards that the Gardai were best qualified to deal with firearms permit applications and referred to the “intemperate” comments of the shooting associations. Minister Quinn omitted to mention the admissions of wrongdoing by Senior Garda Officers under Oath, in the High Court.

If ever there was a time to take firearms licensing out of the hands of the Gardai, this has to be it. They simply cannot be trusted and shooting/hunting folk no longer have any confidence in them. In my opinion, there’s a palpable dearth of decency in high places.

The spectre of 1972 still stalks the land.

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By Dan Kinney

Characters all T

he Editor has asked me to recall some of the great characters, good shots and good fishermen I have met in a long life, much of it spent along the river bank, on the moors, in a boat or on various sorts of playing fields.

When people ask me why I gave up a very good job with The Guardian in London in the sixties I tell them, with a degree of truth, that I had to make a decision about my eldest daughter Mary’s education. The nearest school to my home near Pinner in Middlesex was about two miles away. It would have meant me The iconic grouse has always been a fascination for the Author (picture by Danny Healy). getting up in the morning Islandmagee. Others have tried to emulate that feat but to have her in school by 9am, call back for her to take her home for so far, have come up short. Frank McKendry’s team that lunch, leave her back to school and then go day included the late Dessie Connolly, a truly brilliant for her in the evening before grabbing shot on the ground or in the air, his brothers Pearse, Tony something to eat and heading down to Gray’s and Justin, Danny McGuinness, Paddy McGarry, Dessie Inn Road for a night’s work in the Guardian. McFadden and Dan Gribben.

For some time, Frank’s basic team consisted of six That did not appeal to me one little bit,as I would be catching the last train home every guns, all expert at their job. The ground that Frank’s son night. My wife is not convinced by that John, Dan McCollam, Sean Mort, Kieran Mort, John argument: she says the call of the moors, Hyndman and myself couldn’t cover, couldn’t be rivers, golf courses and other playing fields in covered. All knew where fox was likely to break in the the Glens of Antrim had proved too strong for prevailing wind conditions and could move quickly if fox did not appear to be playing ball. In later years me. Well, maybe she is right.

The friends I have made over the years came from all walks of life, including professional people, two clergymen, farmers, handymen and labourers. All had one thing in common: they were men of the utmost integrity, with a great love for the countryside and concern, informed by realism, for its wildlife. The man who opened many a door for us In North Antrim was the late Frank Healy, the Ministry of Agriculture’s fox control officer in the area. He did not see his job as one of exterminating foxes; it was to control foxes, especially those killing lambs or poultry. He did that job superbly.

On occasion, we would team up with his great friend Frank McKendry to hunt cover that was too big and too thick for one team of terriers and men. On one famous occasion we shot 15 adult foxes on one visit to 68

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

Henry Andy McNeill, Jack Mitchell, Pat McCarry, Jeff McFadden, Barry Mullan. Patrick Blaney, Alex Forsythe, John Pat McLaverty, Willie Reynolds, Davy Horner, Randal Mc Donnell, Frank and Danny Healy, Joe Boyle, Alastair McKay, Paddy Kinney and Paddy Lynn gave great service when the pressure was greatest.

I would say that Willie Reynolds, a former gamekeeper at Mackie’s estate in Loughgiel, was the best shot at bolting rabbits I have ever seen; if you blinked an eye the rabbit would be rolling over a mere few yards from the burrow before you got the gun up.

And he was equally good in the air.

A bottle of ‘Holy Water’ cleared the way Alex Forsythe, though not of the same religious

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persuasion as Canon O’Kane, drove the Canon everywhere on shooting or fishing expeditions and worked his fine setters for him on the moors above Loughgiel. A kind and thoughtful man he would often call round on `his’ farmers, the night before a fox shoot, with what he called bottle of holy water and cleared the way for a fine day’s hunting.

Canon Dermot Griffiths was another man apart. I spent many a happy hour with him in his manse near Dungannon and on the grouse moors where he ran a fine collection of prize winning pointers. He told me that when he was serving in his C of I parish at Ligoniel in North Belfast, he often slipped out early in the morning before services, and rarely returned without a few brace of grouse from the surrounding hills; they don’t make them like that anymore. Editor’s Note: I once sold the Canon a trained Springer and he asked me back to shoot over his pointers on the moor. No sign of him when I arrived at the manse but a short time later his car drew up and the Canon emerged in clerical garb. A funeral had kept him back but all was not lost. In minutes he had stripped off the ‘official’ clothes to reveal a well worn shooting outfit all belted and buckled for the moor. We had a fine day’s sport but my abiding memory was the Canon’s ‘quick change’ before we set off.

Paddy Lynn must have been well over 70 at a time when he was able to get to the top of the Clougheries in Glenariffe ahead of the young guns who were looking for a quick bolt out of the great boulders that made up the Clougheries.

At that time we had some grouse on the moors

up stock still. I would look across to see if the canon was ready for what was about to happen; he always was.

Invariably, grouse would break towards him as if drawn by a magnet. The Canon would remain motionless for what seemed an eternity. Then up would come the double barrels and down would come two grouse, dead in the air before they hit the ground. The Canon never rushed things, the mark of a truly great grouse shot.

What about the present team of hunters? I have seen my son Dan and his hounds do excellent work often in the presence of noted Dungannon huntsman Oliver Lyttle. I am confident that they and my two grandsons, Dan and Ruairi, will maintain a proud tradition of hunting in a successful and humane way.

I have left some of the good wine to the last.

Ballyclare terrier expert Brian McCullough has no peer in the art of inducing a difficult fox to vacate its place of refuge, even if that should be 25 feet below ground. A few days before writing this article, Brian again covered himself in glory when he accounted for a dog fox and vixen which had been killing lambs on John McAuley’s moor in Glendun. John came down to my home to thank us for the great clearance. He was utterly amazed that Brian and his terriers had accounted for the vixen and her cubs in a big earth a mere 50 yards from the road and only feet from where she had lifted the lambs. Luckily for John and his lambs Dan and his team had raised the dog fox across the Glendun River from where vixen was holed up and were on hand when hounds put him to ground in a moss hole after a two mile point. Two miles is an awful long way on Glendun’s slopes and the dog might have had a bit of luck if Dan’s party and Brian had got the vixen two minutes after leaving the van. They would reject that, of course!

In the sixties and seventies I used to take a fortnight off work in Belfast in March to hunt round the shore at Cushleake. I remember one Sunday we shot five foxes before our team of Frank Healy, Jack Mitchell, Sean Mort and I got as far as Torr. Next day it was on to Benvane and Murlough where Pat McCarry, his brother Frank, and uncle Joe would join in and be mighty glad to see foxes roll. At that time there were still quite a number of grouse on adjacent moors and a day out with Canon O’Kane was one to be cherished. I had a very good pointer at the time and a couple of days after shooting the Canon’s moors in Loughgiel we would invite him and his friends to shoot our moors near Cushendun. The pointer wouldn’t Slipping past - grouse status should be high on the conservationists’ agenda (picture by Danny Healy). have made many casts before he came 70

Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

By Stephen Smyth

THE LANCASTERS

Stephen Smyth with one of his treasured Lancasters.

M

y late father, Russell Smyth was a tremendous wildfowler all his life and a Firearms Dealer for over thirty years since the early 1970s. He sold thousands of shotguns and his passion and expertise was in English side by sides. Dad would have regarded himself as a wildfowler who was also a gun dealer, rather than the reverse. He traded more in the affordable, decent quality boxlocks, like Midland, Thomas Bland, Webley and Scott, Greener and the like but, in his heyday, he also sold finest quality English 12 bore sidelocks by Purdey, Boss, Holland and Holland, Churchill and Lang.

This was his passion and he was happier shooting on the foreshore of Lough Foyle, or the banks of the Bann, than at very posh driven shoots at Lord So and So’s estate. But he took great pleasure in really beautiful, hand crafted, English firearms and, as he

built up his knowledge and opinions of these guns, so his reputation as an expert in this field grew. As a dealer in the late 1970s, with a few bob to spend or invest in his hobby and with an eye for quality, what did he pick for himself as his ultimate, sporting firearm of choice? The result is quite surprising.

Dad’s eventual selection was a true pair of consecutively numbered, back action sidelock guns built in 1896 in London by Charles Lancaster. Dad had researched this pair for several years, eventually tracking them down by way of the legendary Shooting Times to a retired military gentleman from Wales. It was a big day, which I can still remember clearly. When they arrived in their fabulous, original maker’s oak and leather, tiered, double motor case with the name of ‘L.J.Baker’ and the word ‘Chertsey’ inscribed on the outside.

Fast forward now to my first ever shots with the No.2 Lancaster. Early October 1979, good rough weather, and Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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Dad and I were sharing a duck hide on the shores of Lough Neagh. A good flock of mallard swung overhead, I fired a couple of hopeful shots and to my amazement two mallard plummeted down. “Did you shoot them Dad?” I shouted with great excitement, expecting that he had got at least one of them and we had fired together at the same birds. “Well done,” he said, “brilliant, you’ve got a right and a left, because I never fired a shot.” I didn’t believe him because Dad always did things like that, like giving you his rod with a salmon already hooked on it and then pretending that it wasn’t on when he had reached it over. “Come on Dad” I asked,” did you really get them both?” He replied: “I never fired, look!” and to my amazement he opened his gun, but no spent cases were ejected because, for some reason he hadn’t fired. That was so typical, he’d let me fire first and then, I think he also was amazed at the result, because my shooting was seldom up to scratch. Then, as my great Springer Rex retrieved both birds, Dad said simply: “Pattern kills!” and he was correct. The pattern thrown by that type of top-class English gun, with sporting two and a half inch loads of an ounce of No. 6 shot has never been surpassed. What an unforgettable baptism for my No. 2 Lancaster!

Both sets of barrels are 28” in length. The No.1 set are improved cylinder and a quarter choke, whilst the No. 2 set of barrels are both one quarter choke. The barrel thicknesses are excellent and both sets have the words ‘Barrels made of Sir Joseph Whitworth’s Fluid pressed Steel’ on their underside rib. Lancaster barrels were always highly rated by the trade and were supplied to John & Joseph Manton, as well as to Purdeys.

Whilst the 14 1/2 inch walnut stocks are well figured, they are not competing with the deep floral rose scrolled engraving covering the lock plates. The back action locks have distinctive leg of Mutton shaped lock plates. My father preferred this slimmer contour to standard sidelocks which he often described as clumpish. As with guns of this age and type, the chambers are two and a half inches and both guns have handy, disc set strikers.

Swing lever fore-ends complete the job.

The Annie Oakley connection The most famous owner of Lancasters was probably the star of 1880s Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, none other than Annie Oakley of “Annie Get Your Gun “ fame.

She used her pair of Lancaster twenty bores for her trick shots and exhibitions, and achieved cult status during her London tours which eventually resulted in Annie gaining Royal approval from Queen Victoria.

Dad once became highly agitated at a huge Game Fair run by Albert Titterington at Clandeboye way back in the 1980s when he took serious issue with Mr. James Booth of Sotheby’s over his guns being greeted with the 72

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unfortunate words: “Ah, the famous Lancaster wrist breakers.” Earlier, at the start of the valuation, Dad had been relaxed and all chuffed as Mr.Booth had started very well by praising the magnificent motor case, but when he opened it and read the maker’s stamp of Charles Lancaster on the inside, he had uttered those fateful words and Dad had reacted like a bull to a red rag. Fortunately I was just about able to prevent Dad from starting a punch up and eventually got him to explain, albeit very forcibly, that the unfortunate nickname was wholly unmerited and they are designed to be assisted opening guns which open very easily when fired, hence the name assisted openers, and then they close crisply and as easily as any other gun. Dad illustrated this by opening and closing the gun about twenty times in thirty-seconds almost shouting: “See, see!” He then reached the startled Mr. Booth his gun and invited him to try it himself. All went deadly silent. In fairness the poor man opened and then shut the gun once without the slightest problem and he immediately conceded to Dad’s point of view. He then proceeded to give us an excellent valuation which recovered the situation somewhat. Dad’s stout defence of his treasured Lancasters easily won the day and we still find it very funny that Mr. Booth, in his wisdom, never did return to these shores again.

During October 2003, I had the guns completely serviced at the discretion of Mr. Mark Crudgington of Crudgington Gunmakers Ltd, Wiltshire. He described them to me in correspondence as ‘the best I have yet seen.’ So, what are they worth today? I must admit that since that service in 2003 I wouldn’t have fired a box of cartridges through the No. 2 gun. Dad’s No. 1 gun has not been fired for fifteen years since he last shot with it in 1998. It doesn’t matter, in another 100 years time they still will be perfect sporting pieces. My lifelong friend, and renowned game shot, Michael Henry, owner and user to great effect of a Purdey (sold to him by my father), a Churchill and a sublime pair made by Boss, recently gave them a thorough examination. He knows his guns very well and I consider him to be an expert on the genre of English guns, and he also knows these Lancaster’s exceptionally well. His valuation, including their motor case, was a staggering £15,000 and not a penny less!

Editor’s Note: The Lancasters were present and much admired at the Ballywalter Fair and unless someone makes Stephen ‘an offer that can’t be refused’ they will be on display at the Irish Game Fair at Shanes Castle.

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By Johnny Woodlock

Why a thermal imager?

T

he first time I came across thermal imaging technology, about the same as most people I suppose, was when I saw it on the television. In my case it was probably to do with a science programme like Tomorrow’s World or news footage of a helicopter rescue. Then I joined my local Coastguard unit and did some training with the rescue helicopters myself, where I was shown the Forward Looking Infra Red camera (FLIR) which is housed with the standard optical camera under the helicopter - not that it was anything like standard. All these devices were large cumbersome attachments put on cameras, to show the heat signature of objects.

Last year, while attending fisheries meeting in Northern Spain, I had access to a fishing industry trade show. There was a display of hand-held thermal imagers to examine large marine engines for hot spots. Having spent sixteen years as a Fisheries Officer, I immediately saw the potential to observe and catch poachers. As a member of the local Coastguard team, I could also see the application regarding search and rescue, where speed is essential when a missing person may be injured.

Later, I realised that for spotting game this technology would be great. The problem was that these small units cost a fortune. They had features which would not necessarily be needed, such as a video out socket and they also showed various temperatures as different colours. I grabbed a brochure and decided to check out this tool. I discovered the variety of thermal imagers which are out there, all different sizes and additional features, but with one thing in common, a huge price tag. Further investigation revealed a huge range of these with all sorts of accessories.

I thought that I would chance my arm and contacted FLIR, the makers of the ones I had seen at the fisheries show and asked them if they would be interested in lending me a unit to review for this magazine. I was very pleasantly surprised when they agreed. It transpired that they had a new model about to come out so I would have to wait. This was going to be the cheapest thermal imager available. Eventually a large box arrived and I unpacked the FLIR ‘Scout PS’ and of course I could not wait to try it out. I went out into the back garden with the dog and pressed the power button.

Immediately, well it actually takes about four-seconds to turn on, I could see the dog as a white image running around the garden. My fingers were on the buttons as I switched between ‘White-Hot’, ‘Black-Hot’ and ‘Instalert,’ which has four levels showing hot spots as red. On Instalert I could see the dog Trying it out: the author gets to grips with some of the latest technology. as a red image as he lifted his leg

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against a bush and left a red patch on the bush as he moved off. I could see the battery was low on the indicator on the screen so I went back inside to read the users manual and charge the unit. All the information and technical information you need comes on the disk in the box, along with a wrist strap, a soft bag and a power cable. I plugged it in to charge as I intended to try it out that evening with a friend who has rabbits in his fields.

The first charge takes a while, but it runs for five hours on a full charge.

Better than an image intensifier First thing I noticed at my friends farmyard was that it was better than an image intensifier as I could see clearly around the yard. The unit shows a clear black and white image, rather than the green fuzzy image of an image intensifier. We moved into the field, and scanning the edges, the target was in the corner about eighty yards away. Switching to Instalert, I could see that it was hot, so was definitely not a rock and when it moved I could positively identify it as a rabbit. My friend did not know there were rabbits this particular part and moving to the next field we saw straight away that the rabbits were out in force. We discovered that by switching modes you can either spot the rabbits and get a clear view, or see the hotspots and zoom in on them using the built in x2 zoom. With this unit we could see the rabbits immediately despite a low fog which masked them to our eyes, even as far as they were at about a hundred yards. My friend kept saying: “Look at them, right out in the field” Of course I could see nothing except the vague outline of the field until he gave me back the unit.

A rather unusual ‘target’ as it turned out Next evening, I tried it again to see if I could spot some badgers which I know visit a house not too far away. I arrived early but it was already dark but when I scanned the acreage in front of the house which had wheat sown in it, I could see something about one hundred yards away in the middle of the field. I zoomed in and as I watched I could see the badger as it moved around digging for worms. Then I spotted a small red dot about halfway between me and the badger. A rat ran along a tractor track. Using bare eyesight alone, I could see neither of these animals, just a dark field. I saw a car drive towards me about two miles away but through the thermal imager I did not even see its headlights. At about a mile and a half I could make out the heat of its bonnet as it drove towards me. They do state in the manual that range depends on experience and conditions, so I guess that the more experience you get with one of these units the more you will get out of it.

However you could be fooled. When out after rabbits one night, we could see horses in the field at a range of about five hundred yards. One ‘target’ I spotted did not hop for the ditch and our hopes were high when we turned on the lights for a shot, only to discover a large pile of fresh horse droppings. As I said this was the basic model, so while some come equipped with a slot for an SD card allowing you to record video or still photos through the imager, with the basic model it was difficult to get clear photos by holding the camera to the eyepiece. In my view, whilst some shooters will spend around €2000 or even more on a decent pair of binoculars, at around €1500 this is great value to see what is or is not out there. For a fishery Manager or shoot manager it only takes a second to see if your property has unwelcome visitors, so it’s ideal for security as well.

A useful piece of kit.

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Summer 2012 Countrysports and Country Life

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From Margaret McStay

The Terrier And Lurcher Show Scene - So Far

Ballywalter Game Fair Champion Terrier - Dessie Macken with Soda Reserve Champion - Paul Heslip.

Roscrea Working Dog Lurcher Racing (Co Tipperary) This day of racing was the first venue of the season and took place on the 18th of March this year at Roscrea Co Tipperary. A brilliant day’s racing was hosted by Shane Lee and his team at Roscrea and a very enjoyable day was had by all.

Fiona Devlin’s Charity Show The Orchard County was buzzing with laughter and excitement on April 14th, as this brilliant dog show took place at Annaghmore Raceway, Co Armagh. This show was organised for Charity and run by Fiona Devlin right in the heart of apple country. With the beauty of the countryside, good company, and the sun shinning what more could we ask for on a great family day out. This show was one of the largest I have seen in a very long time and went without a hiccup.There were doggie men and women from North and South of the border, all with two or three dogs in their trailer. Fiona your show was a real credit to you, and a roaring success.

The good news is Fiona’s Charity Dog Show raised 78

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£715 for Cancer Charity. Look what comfort this cheque will give a person during treatment, or in the last days. Many thanks to every one of you who attended this show, You all contributed to this very needy cause and of this we are all truly grateful. None of us know what tomorrow will bring and it’s nice to know that there are people standing in the wings to help us out when we need it. Thanks again for your generosity.

There were 90 entries for the racing at this show, proof of how popular this show was. Fiona arranged a Shield for the overall winner of the show in the memory of Eddie McKinistry, a popular show goer, who sadly past away some weeks ago. Having this shield each year, will keep Eddie’s memory alive.

The Sporting Whippet Show (NI) Dunsilly Kennels Antrim on Sunday 29th April was alive with the sound of showing and racing Whippets, parents and children, Terrier and Lurcher people who came as spectators to show their support, as the first Sporting Whippet Club NI Show of the year got under way. The weather held out all day with no rain, but a

and quite a few new faces as well. There were top class Whippets taking part both in the showing and racing.

It was nice to see so many children taking part in the children’s handling class.These little boys and girls were so proud and it always tugs at my heartstrings being a mother myself, when I see all the children winning and participating at these shows. Somehow, one gets a sense of pride and accomplishment just to see the smile on their little faces when they run to their parents with their prizes in hand. Remember the children of today, are the show organisers of tomorrow.

Ballywalter Game and Country Living Fair On Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th May we had a very relaxing and most enjoyable two days with friends at Ballywalter Game and Country Living Fair. From early morning, car loads of families Ballywalter’s Champion Lurcher- Stephen Dummigan with began arriving from all parts of the country to Dash Reserve Champion - Megan Crothers. partake in all the fun of the fair. It was very relaxing to be able to stroll around the many trade bitterly cold wind kept everyone wrapped up with a few layers of clothing. Janet Duke and her committee did a stands in the sunshine, all packed with their own superb job as usual, with the showing and racing specialised goods. There were lots of bargains and no conducted with impeccable organisation. It was nice to doubt I did not come home empty handed. Highlights see so many people attending, both regular show-goers for me included Lawrence Hawley’s stand who had

Overall Show Champion at Ballywalter game Fair - Graham Meek with Merlin Reserve Show Champion - Dessie Macken with Soda.

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not a cloud in the sky, and did so all two days.

The Dog Show on Sunday started promptly at 11.00am, with the car park packed with cars, vans and dog trailers. There was a very big turnout from the canine fraternity. Many people travelled from Southern Ireland as well as from all over the Northern Ireland.

The Dog showing commenced with Albert Titterington welcoming everybody to the show and introducing the Judges. A great dog show commenced, and many people went home with Rosettes and Trophies, both for showing and racing. When the dog show was over we had a final walk around the trade stands and got some really good bargains before the traders packed up and headed for home. Many thanks to Albert and Irene Ballywalter lurcher racing: Rose with Diego Under 23” 1st and Zola 1st Titterington and their team for a great Game in the Under 21” lurcher racing.

Fair at Ballywalter. We really enjoyed our two some lovely ladies Hunter Wellingtons and all days, and are already looking forward to next year - but necessities to do with country living. Lawrence travels right now we are getting ready for the big event at over from Newcastle and told me he just loves Shanes Castle. All photographs courtesy of Deirdre Ballywalter and the people, and looks forward to coming McCoy here with his trade stand every year. I also visited Stephen Smith’s Barbour Country Wear, some lovely jackets there at very reasonable prices, and I stopped off at the Richard from Portadown Outdoor Experience stand. More bargains here and loads of choice goods. I also managed some fly fishing under the watchful eye of instructor Mark Patterson of Flyfish NI. I took part in the Terrier, Whippet and Lurcher racing demonstration in the main arena, and watched many more events in there including Keith Matthews and his record breaking multiple dog obedience instruction. Keith gave a very professional performance with huge numbers of family folk taking part. I also took the time to head up to the Courtyard to sample all the beautiful food up there. It made me very proud to be from Northern Ireland where such great food can be produced. Having such a relaxing fun day out on Saturday, I just could not wait to get back Pictured at Mourne Charity Show (full report in the up there on Sunday. The sun shone continuously, with Autumn issue)

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Obituary

The late Colonel B D Cotton OBE, GCSTJ, TD, DL.

B

ertrand Cotton or ‘Ber’ as he was known was born on 2nd July 1917 and was educated at Castle Park, Dublin and Wrekin College, Wellington, Shropshire. He was successful in getting into Queen’s University, Belfast to study law but was called up shortly afterwards due to his military involvement. After the war he returned to Northern Ireland and took up his studies again, having to work hard many evenings to qualify as a solicitor. In the end he joined a firm Crawford & Lockhart, Martin H Turnbull & Co and was a partner until his retirement.

Alongside his other responsibilities, he was for 55 years a member of the Ancient and Most Benevolent Order of the Friendly Brothers of St Patrick and for 8 years held the title Sir John Friendly (very fitting in his case), which meant he was in much demand to attend functions throughout Ireland but despite his advancing years he made every effort to attend.

He was also awarded the Salvation Army Order to Distinguished Auxiliary Service.

In his early years Ber was a great sailor, even crewing the second boat in Dragon Class Olympic Trial in 1948. He was a life member of the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, having served as Rear and Vice Commodore and was also a member of the Strangford Lough Yacht Club.

In 1938, Ber joined the Territorial Army and was commissioned into the 188th (Antrim) Heavy Battery RA(TA). He saw war-time service with the Royal Artillery on Belfast Lough Defences and in India. In India he travelled all over, seeing Karachi, Madras, Bombay, Calcutta and Ceylon and ended up in charge of a coastal artillery battery with strength of about 250 of all ranks.

In 1947 there was a rationalisation of TA Gunner units. 429 (Antrim) Coast Regiment, Royal Artillery (TA) was formed to which Ber was appointed Commanding Officer, a position he held from 1952 to 1956 and he was awarded an OBE in 1955. This unit was then abolished, rebadged and converted to the 146th (Antrim Artillery) Field Engineer Regiment RE (TA) to which Ber became the first Commanding Officer, a post he held till 1957.

In 1960 Ber was promoted to the rank of Colonel and appointed Deputy Commander of 107 (Ulster) Independent Brigade Group (TA), until 1964. He was appointed ADC to the Queen and he was Honorary Colonel of 591 (Antrim) Independent Field Squadron RE (TA) from 1963 to1966.

After giving up his uniform, Ber went on to hold a number of important posts in bodies which supported the TA. He was chairman of TAVRA from 1974 to 1980, Chairman and later President of the Army Cadet Force Association; he served on the Territorial Council in London and was a member of the Reserve Services Advisory Board at the Ministry of Defence and became a Deputy Lieutenant for Belfast.

Ber also made a distinguished contribution to the Commandery of Ards of the Order of St John. His association with the Order began in 1963 when he was invited to become the Director of the St John Ambulance Association, the teaching arm of St John, which was responsible for running first aid classes for the industry and the public.

In 1973 he was appointed Treasurer of the Commandery, before becoming Lieutenant in 1981, then Knight Commander in 1986 until 1992. On retirement he was promoted to Bailiff Grand Cross an honour fitting to his contributions.

including visits to Lough Mask in the Mayfly season

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But the sport he never gave up was game fishing, and twice yearly pilgrimages to the River Erriff in Country Mayo, with his family and friends.

When Ber had his 90th Birthday, he had to have his fifth hip replacement and coming out of the operation he looked to his wife and said: “I’m dying aren’t I?” to which she replied “Nonsense, you’re not! You always said you’d catch a salmon when you were 90, so you’d better get on with it!”

This had a good effect and he did catch one at 90, not only that year but every year and when he was 94 he came home with three!

His favourite fishing story took place about 10 or more years ago, when he was fishing on Doyle’s pool, on beat 6. He cast and his fly, caught on something which then wiggled and as he pulled in some line a good sized salmon exploded out of the water but a long way from where his fly had caught. It transpired that his fly had hooked a small knot on a lengthy bit of line. He had a wild battle to bring in the salmon and was astonished to find his second long broken line was attached to a spinning hook which was stuck in the salmon’s tail; it was a miracle that he got it.

He also loved fishing at Loughinisland, Co Down with the Downpatrick Anglers and was touched when they made him and Honorary Life Member. Sadly he found as the years passed that getting in and out of a boat became too difficult for him and he did miss his angling friends.

Not only was he keen on fishing but he was also a great shot and one of the more memorable stories he told was about the time he shot a snipe from the hip, a hard enough feat from the shoulder! He also enjoyed hunting in his earlier days and spending many Saturday’s with the Sunnyland beagles.

Ber loved life, was a gentleman through and through, he was friendly at all times and courteous to all he met, he was the most able man to rise to the top of any organisation he joined. He was much loved and blessed by a peaceful end on 9th January 2012, surrounded by his family.

By Billy Lewis

Country Chat A

s more than his reputation increases, Billy takes on an English Pointer, muses over the Dr Doolittles at the Vets and advises never eat the eighth edible nut.

Since being entrusted with the tenancy of this column many years ago, I have gone from a 32 inch waist to a 34 where I settled for a while, before moving on to a 36inch waist. As I work in kennels and do a lot of road walks and free-running the dogs to keep them fit, not forgetting hill work with my own dogs, it is imperative that I keep fit myself. Unfortunately, it was becoming the norm to ask the wee woman to go a seamstress with an armful of tweed breeks, with instructions to expand the waistline. This is just not on for any self-respecting pointer man.

On a grouse moor last year, the owner of the estate just happened to remark: “Billy is very fit,” to which the keeper replied, “I have never seen a pointer man that isn’t.” So, no more sugar coated cereals for breakie, chocolate biscuits after evening meals, a chocolate bar on the vehicle fuel card, stealing the children’s goodies out of the fridge and definitely no more comfort eating. I actually knocked on my Daughter’s bedroom door one evening and asked if she wanted the Easter egg I had bought her. The wee crater replied: “Yes Daddy I do, and don’t be touching it.” I replied, unrepentant: “Can I have the little packet of eggs inside it then?”

So apart from weight gain, if there was one thing that seriously bugged me back in 2011 and now seems to be on the increase, it is the amount of road works and

diversions that we all have to endure. Yes, I know it is probably essential maintenance, but my goodness it was and still is, an absolute nightmare at times. I found myself having to leave home earlier than normal, just to get about, let alone getting to work.

Driving to a field trial in Athlone Co. Meath back in November last year, running slightly late as usual, I came upon a seventeen mile diversion, which was the last thing I needed that morning. Fortunately, a good friend from Mullingar, bless him, popped up and got me to the meeting place on time. I don’t think people can be bothered nowadays going out for ‘Sunday drives,’ just too much traffic on the roads and far too dangerous to be driving aimlessly about. It probably isn’t as common as it was in times past anyhow and besides, the price of fuel these days would definitely keep you off the road, unless of course your journey really was essential.

Going to work early one morning and completely unaware that one side of the carriageway between Comber and Newtownards was completely closed, I followed the diversion signs, which directed me from Comber to Dundonald and then back to Newtownards.

More fuel and more miles added to my journey, and, when they closed the other side from Newtownards to Comber, I ended up at Scrabo Tower.

Another trend that seems to be on the increase, is the training of animals (I don’t think training is the right word though) to perform circus tricks. Crufts is supposed to be the prestigious show for showing dogs off at their best, yet we were subjected to someone dressed up like a matador, with the poor animal up on its hind legs, which is - if you are naive enough to believe it - dancing to music. I actually phoned them up and complained about it. And to think they outlawed dancing bears decades ago. Dogs have moved on from their early days of evolution to having a much greater bond and association with humans, indeed to such a degree that training or teaching them by domination or the use of rewards is now debatable.

The Dr Doolittles

English, German and Hungarian Pointers on the March pair counts.

People who talk to their pets, now I find more amusing. When I go to the vets, there is nearly always a Doctor Dolittle in the surgery. They usually kick off by talking to their own pets, then smiling over in my direction. “That’s a lovely pup, what breed is it?” “It’s a German Shorthaired Pointer.” “Och your gorgeous, aren’t you?” When asked her name, “Pup Pup” I replied.

“Hello Pup Pup, you’re gorgeous, yes you are, you’re gorgeous.”

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Both Pup Pup and I say nothing. I stare at a poster on the wall that I’ve seen a thousand times, I then foolishly catch the eyes of an overfed Westie owner. “The wee Granddaughter gave him a lick of her lolly, and he ate the stick too,” says the owner. “You are a naughty boy Archie, yes you are.” Unable to escape, I study the poster.

Back in December, a friend gave me a five-year-old English Pointer bitch, requesting that I try her out and, if I liked her, then perhaps I may consider paying an agreed price for her. Now if you had gifted me an English pointer a year ago, let alone pay for one, I would have politely chased you from about my person. Not that I have any misgivings of the breed as a working gundog mind you, but with the HPRs, they do exactly what it says on the tin, that’s hunt, point and retrieve but sometimes shot game is as hard to find as unshot game.

The late Peter Moxon used to refer to English Pointers and English setters as ‘bird dogs’ and, no doubt, there will be owners of those breeds who allow theirs to retrieve. For me, a breed of gundog that hunts and points only, is akin to undercoat paint, it only does half the job!

This was a superb example of the breed Since the best part of my year is spent hunting grouse and, at the very maximum, four days actually shooting grouse, the English Pointer is for me just what the doctor ordered. I am surprised that I had not thought of it before. A friend from Armagh hunts two English Setters and two Red Setters; they move over the hills like greyhounds and miss little and, like myself, their owner only shoots grouse on managed grouse moors across the water. Time will tell with this English Pointer bitch, she has a superb temperament, is a lovely example of the breed and during the early stages of youth, was trained and handled by that well known English pointer man, Mr James Coyle from Omagh.

During January I had the three pointers up on the Mournes getting them and myself fit for the pair counts in March. Going over one of those high stile type ladders, Tia the Vizsla had no bother going up and over the ladder, the English Pointer on the other hand paced up and down on Candlestick the other side of the wall.

Holder using Twenty feet or so away was a Stag Antlet in East Haugh square hole purposely cut at Hotel, the bottom of the wall and, Pitclochry. with no encouragement from me, Tia shot through it and brought the English Pointer back with her. She is without 84

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Roadworks!

doubt the most intelligent dog of all the dogs in my kennel. I now field three different gundog nationalities, the German Pointer, the Hungarian Pointer and the English Pointer.

But how many is too many?

Now then, I am sure there are sensible ones among you who watch very little television, or even try to avoid it altogether. I find myself watching the usual favourites every now and then, especially if it coincides with meal times. Now as you all know, I am not the type to moan, but I am starting to get a little peeved every time I turn on the telly and see yet another so called ‘celeb’ fresh from the streets of some soap opera or whatever, dressed in the usual designer jungle wear, complete with bandanna, down on his or her knees whispering to the cameras, whilst two mountain gorillas are having their breakfast in the background. Or indeed he or she is eating slugs soaked in the sap of a Bonsai tree, while bemused natives look on, some of which are kitted out in jeans and football tops. That great survival expert Ray Mears, whom I do admire, is now doing the whispering thing as well, sitting in a little cammo hide from an ungodly hour, waiting for Blackcock to strut their stuff in front of the cameras, crew and we viewers. I thought it very amusing on one of his series, when an Australian aboriginal was showing him how they turn a termite mound into a make shift oven, halfway up the mound he scooped out both mud and occupants, he then shoved in dry grass and twigs, and threw an Australian fish of some sorts on top. Then turning around to the cameras, he asked if anybody had a lighter, poor Ray almost had a heart attack. On another occasion he joined forces with Les Hiddins, the Australian version of himself. As the two travelled across Queensland learning about the bushcraft of the indigenous people and swapping stories and suchlike, Les told him about one particular tree which produced edible nuts: “Eat just enough for survival, eat too many and you ended up with a bad dose of diarrhoea.”

“How many is too many?” asked Ray. “Well, we gave one nut to one soldier, two to another and so on, but we will forever remember the name Andy Lea, for thanks to Andy we now know it takes eight nuts!”

Hugh Brady profiles

Derek Watkins of Lusca Kennels D

erek Watkins, a dedicated falconer until recently, won the pointer and setter British Championship in July 2011 with his Irish Setter Lusca Snuff the Wind. What an extraordinary story. He first went to a field trial five years ago and became interested in the work of the Red Setter dog. He was invited to join the team of Steve Robinson and Jean Brown on training and counting days. His first win in a field trial was the British Championship stake and no doubt this success will go down in folklore. While this is a unique achievement there is a familiarity regarding the kennels that produced another Championship winner.

The ultimate aim of any breeder is to breed a Championship winner, but what an achievement breeding five dogs that have won five Championship stakes between Ireland, Britain and New Zealand.

Declan O’Rourke of the prefix Lusca (Gaelic word for Lusk where he lives) has had a long association with red setters. One imagines given this level of success his kennels are vast in terms of numbers of dogs but this is not the case. At most times he keeps only six dogs and maybe only two of those are female. So what are the critical success factors to being one of the most successful breeders of Irish setters in modern history?

To explore this question it is important to review those early years. Declan was a shooting man and bought his first dog, a female Gordon Setter from the renowned Gordon Setter breeder Ken Larkin. Declan attended his first trial in Ballyfin in 1983, which was the Puppy Derby run by the Red Setter club. From this, he further attended a number of other Red Setter trials as a spectator and the famous Red Setter man, Jack Nash, gave him enormous encouragement. At the two-day Red Setter autumn trial in Vicarstown, Declan asked Nash for a Red a Red Setter dog pup. It was a further two years later, after a trial in Ballylanders, that Nash took him home to Pallasgreen, Co. Limerick to collect the pup. The pup was to become the International F.T.Ch Ranger of Lusk. Declan did some initial work with this dog on stubbles in Lusk and sent him off to be trained by John Bradshaw from Mullinahone, Co. Tipperary for eight weeks.

The dog became so successful that John Bradshaw used a photo of Ranger on his advertisements for many years. Ranger pointed early at just six months, which is unusual in Red Setters and once he reached maturity, he was extensively campaigned in Ireland and Great 86

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Declan with Lusca Hi-Speed.

Britain. It was on one of these early trips to Scotland that he met Will Sloan of the influential Ardoon Kennels. This partnership was to prove formative in Declan’s later successes. Ranger continued trialling till he was eleven years old and proved to be an influential sire dog in terms of the development of the Lusca Kennels.

However, one of Declan’s great regrets was that he had asked Nash to breed from Ranger but fate intervened and Nash was tragically killed in an accident before this was possible. However, Jack’s widow, Mrs. Dorothy Nash, months after the accident sent Declan the Red Setter bitch Moanruad Breda. She was highly bred, being the daughter of Moanruad Quaver by Lounaght Betsy.

Breda was never trained but was a prolific brood bitch used several times by Declan before being sold along with a pup to a priest in Northern Ireland. On hearing

this, Will Sloan bought Breda from the priest and kept her to breed from in the future. Breda’s first litter was to Ardoon Lusk Boy a young dog that Declan had acquired from Will Sloan and this produced Lusca Max and Perry but perhaps more crucially introduced the hugely successful Steve Robinson into the relationship. Steve had booked pups from Will Sloan and from this Declan was contacted. Steve came over with his family and Ranger demonstrated his abilities in spring corn. Steve purchased two pups Max and Perry. Indeed Declan’s late Mother Molly, a keen judge of a dog picked out Max. Lusca Max and Perry were made into GB F.T. Chs and Max also won the Irish Championship in 1998. These dogs had an enormous influence on the popularity of red dogs on the trialling circuit in the UK winning over 40 awards in open stakes. Will Sloan bred Breda to his dog Cromabu Ash and this litter produced the famous Ardoon Jack who was owned by Steve Robinson. Jack had the distinction of winning the Irish Championship back to back in 1999 and 2000.

Dogs that make it and dogs that will not It is well known that Declan is very attached to his dogs. However like all successful handlers he can judge the dogs that will make it and those that will not and he does not keep those dogs that will not make the grade.

His key attributes for any dog is drive and nose. He loves a dog in trials that is ‘on the edge’ or nearly out of control and views this as a calculated gamble in that ‘you either win or you get home early.’

His next dog of note was Lusca Speedy Boy who was bred from Declan’s dog Dyllas Ranger and Ardoon Lusk Girl.

Ardoon Lusk Girl was a full sister to Ardoon Jack, was noted for his hard running and was extremely tough to

handle. He won the Irish Championship in 2004. Speedy Boy was trained by Hughie Matheson in Scotland.

Speedy Boy was a tall rangy dog with good dashes of white. He worked to Declan’s mantra of win or bust but like all Lusca dogs was birdy and even out of control would always point his birds.

Declan mated Ranger of Lusk to his bitch Ardoon Lusk Girl this litter produced Lusca Finn who at four months went to Ms. Jean Brown and this dog also achieved his F.T.Ch title before winning the Irish Championship in 2003. Ms. Brown is a successful trainer and handler and in winning the G.B. Championship with an English Setter in 2010 confirmed this as the first lady to complete this double achievement. Indeed Ms. Jean Brown (England), Mrs. Penny Darragh (Scotland) and Ms. Carol Calvert (Northern Ireland) are in most peoples’ opinion, the most successful female trainers in pointer and setter history. It is quite remarkable that they all compete in the same generation. Ranger was also bred to Ruby Colleen to produce Dyllas Frill and Dyllas Ranger. Dyllas Frill produced possibly one of the most successful litters ever. She was hard running with an excellent nose but extremely temperamental. Frill was bred to Ardoon Jack and this produced Declan’s Irish Championship Winner Lusca Hi-Speed in 2007 while litter brother Lusca Skippy who won the New Zealand

F.T.Ch. Lusca Hi-Speed (IKC Championship Winner in 2007) and Lusca Emma.

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Championship in 2008. Steve Robinson made G.B. Ft Ch’s of litter brothers Ripp and Fizz and they were also runners up in the British Championship in consecutive years.

Lusca Hi-Speed won the Irish Championship in 2007.

Trained by Steve Robinson, very birdy and runs great lines, he has proved durable and is still trialling successfully at nine years of age. A repeat mating of Jack and Dyllis Frill produced Lusca Gin owned by Mr. Colin Forde of Limerick and Lusca Snuff the Wind owned by Steve Robinson before being sold to Derek Watkins who went on to win the G.B. Championship 2011.

Declan’s latest dog is Lusca Happy Chappy who was trained by Lawton Evans. This is a very tough dog that is extremely difficult to handle. His sire is the aforementioned Lusca Speedy Boy by Dyllis Frill. He won four open stakes in a row in the North. Declan feels he is the only dog ever to achieve this feat. From this he gained his G.B. F.T.Ch title. A strong bony looking dog he is similar in appearance to Will Sloan’s earlier dogs.

Declan’s resident female, Lusca Emma produced GB F.T.Ch Lusca Tanner for Billy Darragh and GB F.T.Ch Lusca Celtic Boy for Brian Morris.

Declan’s breeding policy was always discussed with his late Mother, Molly. She had a keen interest in pedigrees and breeding lines and spent many evenings discussing the merits of different sires. He wanted to breed a hard running red setter and believed the female must be outstanding in terms of heart, pace and drive.

He has less interest in their physical appearance, but considers that the female contributes 70% of the characteristics of a litter; an excellent sire and an ordinary dam will not produce hard running dogs, in a sire he is not particularly concerned about pedigree.

His dogs mature late and therefore he has only ever competed once in the Derby. However his dogs are durable and can compete well into their old age, thus confirming their conformity and drive. Declan holds all pups for 15 weeks before they are sold. He chooses a dog pup by separating them from the females and looks for a big rib cage and a good bone structure. In a female he looks for the same physical traits, but prefers them longer in the leg. Before he makes his choice he takes them to grass fields as a litter and studies them over a number of weeks.

How does he rate his dogs He rates Ranger of Lusk as being the best he has had on birds, Lusca Speedy Boy as having the most drive and Lusca Happy Chappy as being the best at producing difficult birds. A very popular man at trials he holds a wide circle of friends. His enthusiasm for his dogs is infectious and as a handler he is one of the best. He exudes a calmness that compliments his fiery dogs and 88

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his easy-going handling style comforts judges. As an International Judge he has admired the skills of many handlers but estimates Ray O’Dwyer, Paddy Collins, Steve Robinson and Billy Darragh as the best he has seen. O’Dwyer is a very quiet handler and his dogs do their ground work evenly, while Collins has the ability to turn difficult dogs into Championship winners, while Robinson is calm and gentle with sensitive dogs and Darragh can send out a dog any distance and turn them in straight lines. He enjoys trialling in Scotland given the large amount of game. Winning his first Championship in 2004 was his happiest memory in field trials.

An unashamed Red Setter man, he often remembers great dogs he has seen over the years and has a top four in chronological order, which Declan believes are way out on their own: The first is the legendary Moanruad Arabella owned by Jack Nash. While she was not the prettiest, she had fierce drive and passion for her work.

Her elegance was famous and the people that saw her became devotees. She was gazelle-like over rough terrain and searched the ground with great intensity. She was killed in an accident before she could obtain her title.

The next is Ray O’Dwyer’s F.T.Ch Sheantullagh Ming.

While small in stature, she possessed explosive speed and sudden stop and typified what is great in the breed.

Her style on point and her smart productions gained many followers. Her gait was eye catching possessing a very high head, was not trialled extensively or early, but has the distinction of winning four open stakes back to back.

Int. F.T.Ch Ardoon Jack owned by Steve Robinson was a strong and powerful running dog and was perfection in terms of bird finding, production and running ability.

He could cover Kinnity at his ease and ran very widely tackling all obstacles in an unfussy manner with a straight compass. A cool exterior that benefited his bird handling abilities belied his hunger for covering ground.

Ardoon Jack also won the Irish Championship back to back.

Lastly the author’s Int. F.T.Ch Ballydavid Airforce who received his Irish title before he was two years and his GB title at three years. A very handsome dog, his ability to take birds at incredible speed and his joyful gait mark him different and Declan explains that his excellent head carriage is unique in his experience of male dogs. Airforce has the panache, style and elegance of the best qualities of the female of the breed but with the power and drive of the male.

He has a young dog in the jeep. He cannot rest on his laurels. All this talk of past successes has made him restless. In an instant he has left the vehicle and his tall lean frame has jaunted half way across the mountain with the next great hope.

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Plus Twos Purdey has ‘The Cure’ ummertime and the livin’ is easy” or so says the song, but it never seems to work out like that at Woodless. First, there are the twins home from boarding school on endless holidays with endless opportunities to get into mischief and then there is rabbit shooting. Since Griff Penny started looking after the gunroom, I have been paying for endless supplies of solvents and oils, mops and brushes and anything else you can imagine. He even wanted me to purchase a ‘Turk’s head’ to use on the black powder guns when Purdey will let him near them. Now Purdey has his suspicions of Penny, who he believes is a poacher that has wormed his way into Woodless in more ways than one. The guns have never been cleaner and nobody has seen Penny doing anything he shouldn’t do, but that’s not good enough for Purdey.

Knowing that, Plus Twos was somewhat surprised when both Dillon and Purdey suggested that we should get Griff to shoot a few rabbits if only to save what little grass we can grow in this blighted patch of the Irish Midlands. This all took place during one of Ireland’s regular economic depressions and Woodless, being low lying, was more depressed than the rest of the country so a few rabbits would help out in the kitchen. Even the fearsome Mrs. Reilly appreciates a rabbit stew.

Penny admitted that he had a rather old shotgun and it was even licensed so there shouldn’t be any problems, or so I thought. He said he would use his own banger of a Landrover and we would supply the cartridges from Purdey’s store and that was a good plan as far as our keepers were concerned. He agreed to take the twins with him on these sorties as pickers-up so there should have been peace for the rest of us. I was surprised with the quantity of ammunition that Purdey produced but he’s the head keeper after all and off they set to wage war on the conies.

“S

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I took the opportunity to do a bit of quiet reading in the study with the pipe drawing nicely and no likelihood of interruptions. All went well for an hour or two and I began to relax, which was a mistake. I heard Penny’s banger arrive in the yard and expected to be left alone for a while, at least until they unloaded the rabbits and hung them in the game larder, but Penny, the twins, Purdey and Dillon all erupted into the study puffing and blowing like a herd of buffalo and all was obviously not well. Penny tossed two cartridges onto my desk and proceeded to cut one open letting the sand which had replaced the shot dribble all over my papers as well as my tin of tobacco. There were accusations of sabotage and denials from Purdey who claimed we must have been duped with a dodgy batch from our supplier. I thought it was more of a case of Purdey having ‘the Cure’ as they say in the midlands of Ireland. Penny said it was typical of the mistrust about the place and Plus Twos was left with the task of pouring oil on troubled waters or rather Elixir down heated throats. Eventually the temperature lowered and some peace descended on Woodless. Purdey swore that he hadn’t meddled with the ammo and Dillon just smirked in his usual leering fashion. I suggested that I would do a sortie or two with them which mollified the keepers and took some of the steam out of both the twins and Griff.

That, as they say, should have been that and I looked forward to a bit of shooting in the evenings and the chance to get on with what passes for running the estate.

Esso had taken a liking to our new recruit and found plenty of odd jobs around the place which he did with a good heart and didn’t complain about, so at least part of the crew were happy. Even Mrs. Reilly said he was handy to get a few vegetables from the garden and, as he didn’t nick my pipe tobacco or half-inch the port, he suited me. But gun cleaning is a messy business and he

often appeared well grimed when he headed to the kitchen for his dinner and the cost of carbolic soap was rising rapidly.

The next problem was the annual church fete and, no doubt, the Rector would be looking for donations, a field and heaven knows else but it had to be faced. I invited him round one morning for coffee and a bun so that I could find out how much it was going to dink my wallet by and who did he turn up with but the Bishop. Now, when the higher echelons of the Church arrive unannounced on the Woodless doorstep I always worry and it has always proved to be justifiably so. This visitation proved to be well up to standard and the

Bishop wanted to know if I would organise a bit of shooting for a few of the diocesan clergy as they needed a bit of country education to tame the guff they had picked up in the Divinity School, which the Bishop was convinced was a hotbed of anti-rural activity, and sure you couldn’t get a young curate to go to a country parish for love nor money! Purdey was summoned and he suggested that a bit of clay shooting might be the best bet as they should all be shooting in the same direction rather than either us or themselves. The only problem was where were we going to get our hands on a few clay traps without breaking the bank but Penny said he knew where he could get a loan of three or four - he was getting more useful all the time. Now the Bishop was a fine rough shooter in his day but finds the walking a bit of a drag nowadays so this would suit him as well. I needn’t tell you who had to buy the clays never mind the cartridges and a date was set. We trained up the twins as trappers and Purdey said he would look after the safety side of things and rather him than me. It was decided to hold the event on the same day as the church fete in adjoining fields where we might attract a few paying punters to participate and offset some of the now mounting expenses. Tierney, the groom, offered to supply a hoopla stall which was most uncharacteristic as he’s as mean as they come unless it involves horses but I realised it was to avoid having to expose any of his equine charges to the treat of pony rides.

The Big Day

Purdey believed Griff Penny to be a poacher.

Plus Twos is a bit of an ‘innocent’ I know, but the amount of setting up and the ensuing rows was enough to run anyone out of the place.

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I don’t envy the Rev. Adrian Mullet’s job as shepherd of that flock! As the proud if timid owner of Woodless it falls to Plus Twos to make an appearance and do a bit of friendly chatting and hand shaking throughout the day which is ‘light work’ compared to judging the ‘Bonny Baby’ competition or the ‘Best Hat’ both of which have inherent dangers in rural Ireland. Guess the weight of the cake at least has the back-up of weighing scales to settle the disputes.

I was surprised at how many of the clergy turned up to shoot as I didn’t expect that it was on the curriculum of either the Divinity School nor taught along with Latin and Hebrew in the university. There was a young fellow from somewhere far down the deep recesses of the diocese who Mullet had known at college and he was either a natural or had been in strict training in secret.

Mullet is a keen angler but was surprising at the clays and himself and his old pal settled down to a battle royal for the prize which Plus Twos had been dragooned into donating. It began to draw quite a crowd as they were equally drawn after several bouts and they wanted a ‘decider’ to settle the matter. After a further twenty –five they were still level and this was now costing a fortune in clays and cartridges which was coming out of my pocket. It was only when the Bishop strolled over for a chat amid the mayhem that I realised I had been taken for a ride. He casually mentioned that Mullet and his pal were regulars at clay shoots in their college days and his pal had shot for Ireland. No wonder they were dusting them one after another! In the long run I had to spring another tankard as it was declared a draw. I would certainly never trust anyone in a clerical collar again.

There was another surprise as Penny showed he was far from a duffer and I began to think that Purdey and Dillon might be right after all. He could break them with the best of them!

Just as things were winding down for the day there was a scream from the tea tent as Ivan and Sap had trained the clay launchers on it and were getting rid of the few clays left. Purdey was showing off one of his black powder percussion guns and, to my horror, drew a bead on the two leading clays as they soared towards Mrs. Reilly’s cake stall, dropping them well short of her.

He had the damn gun loaded with his usual charge of black powder and enough shot to do the job. Needless to say that didn’t stop the complaints and in fact only made them worse.

The Bishop thought the day a great success and suggested we run it as an annual event-that man has a way of costing old Plus Twos a small fortune - and he hadn’t touched me yet for the roof repairs or whatever else he was after. How church roofs as well as the ‘rectory fabric’ can deteriorate at the rate they do is 92

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beyond me. Sometimes I wonder is it the constant stream of fervent prayer that shakes their slates.

Preserves The after event meeting went well and Purdey stated his genuine thanks that the only ‘preserves’ that were attacked were of the ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ variety and that his birds were not even disturbed. Penny was a bit sheepish about his prowess with a shotgun and claimed it as beginner’s luck. Now if he thought anyone believed that he was greatly mistaken. It seemed almost dull after all the razzmatazz and I was settling into a nice little routine of hitting the estate office or the study about eleven for a cup of coffee, a pipe and the paper until it was shattered by the unexpected return of Esso’s old man, Hans Helmut Oberjaeger, having been deported from yet another former colony which no longer approved of his ‘oil business’ or the supply of oil for the greasing of palms as I had heard it put by smarter men than myself. He always seems to have a scheme or two in the pipeline and thinks Plus Twos would do well to invest despite my explaining that I’m broke and any money that does come into Woodless leaves it at even greater speed. He thought I might be interested in something to do with a bit of gold prospecting on the Australian property even though it is miles from any known find and I soon realised that the lack of gold was not a barrier to his little scheme. All he wanted was a mug, preferably as naive as myself, to front his latest operation designed to fleece a few more mugs. Now Esso loves her father dearly but she hasn’t dropped me in it yet with any of his scams. On this occasion she solved the problem by inviting Supt. Farlow round for lunch with the stipulation he come in uniform. Now sooner had he stepped into the hall and the effect of a police uniform had the desired effect with old Oberjaeger getting noticeably fidgety. She had also invited the Rector so he couldn’t even curse under his breadth but it did give Mullet the chance to tap me for another few bob for the parish funds. Although it got rid of Oberjaeger it still wasn’t cheap but Mullet’s latest scheme was worse than usual, but that is a very long story.

Plus Twos Woodless House, Woodless Bog, Co. Westmeath

From Tom Fulton

Hunting Roundup

A fox takes flight from the Meath Foxhounds.

Irish Masters of Foxhounds Association seminar is the first of a series The IMFHA held a seminar, on Hound and Kennel management, at the Kadeen Hotel, Newbridge, Co Kildare and drew a good response from packs all over Ireland. Chairman Rupert Macauley MFH, West Wicklow Foxhounds, welcomed everyone and then handed over to three very impressive speakers.

Eugene Brennan, Canine Nutritional expert with Connelly’s Red Mills the meal manufacturers, spoke on the benefits of prepared feed for hounds, as opposed to other means of feeding.

Veterinary surgeon Ms Eleanor Wauchob then spoke on the subject of kennel cough giving a very practical presentation on the subject.

The final speaker, solicitor Barry O’Driscoll MFH, West Carberry Foxhounds, brought his legal expertise to bear on the subject of the Dog Breeding Establishments legislation.

Each presentation was followed by questions from the floor with which each speaker dealt very informatively.

While the seminars will continue to be organised by the IMFHA Rupert Macauley stresses that they are open to all hunting people and that members of the Hunting Association of Ireland and of the Hunting Association of Northern Ireland are welcome so that speakers may be given the widest possible range of audiences and to build on this initial interest.

Joint Meeting Richhill & Sunnyland Beagles A joint meet of the Armagh and Richhill Beagles, who hosted the Sunnyland Beagles, at Salter’s Grange

(photo: Ciara Cooney) outside, Loughgall, Co Armagh, saw the respective huntsmen bring forward 10 and 10½ couple mixed packs on a bright, but chilly, late February Thursday. A small band of followers included visiting huntsmen Mark McIlroy, Newry Harriers and Keith McCall of the Tynan and Armagh Foxhounds. The area had a number of hares in evidence and knowledgeable hunting man Bob Tucker, who lives locally, opined that they didn’t seem to be running as they normally did though that might be down to the strong winds.

In the event, three hares were hunted throughout the day in scenting conditions which appeared to improve as the day progressed.

The first hare rose in an orchard and then ran across Salter’s Grange Road and into Mills’s quarry, to the evident interest of the work force. Hounds were quickly on terms and hunted it around the quarry before losing it when it came back to the road. After some diligence on the part of huntsmen and hounds a second hare went afoot and took hounds in a wide circle around Boland’s out farm before running back to the front of the house where it was lost.

As scent seemingly improved hounds found another hare at Boland’s and hunted it back across their land towards Loughgall. By now, strong winds prevented us foot followers from keeping in touch and this hare, too, was lost at the rear of Boland’s to bring this blustery day to an end.

Meath Foxhounds The Meath Foxhounds last meet of the season, hosted

by Patsy Burke at Culmullin, emphasised to me the continuity which the Henry family brings to this Hunt.

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opined to his father, Johnny, that he had “never known them hunt better.” The field was certainly having much to do to keep in touch and some very good horsemanship was being shown as they did so. This fox ran hard back towards Batterstown, around Woodpark Stud at Dunboyne, then crossed the main Baytown to Dunboyne Road. He continued towards Rathregan before hounds were finally stopped, after a fast thirty-five minute hunt, as they were approaching the M3 motorway, to conclude the season.

Tynan and Armagh Foxhounds Having covered the Beagles joint meet at Salter’s Grange on the previous Thursday I returned there on the following Saturday, the last in February, to see the Tynan and Armagh Foxhounds, in this picturesque County Armagh hamlet.

Hilary Thompson, whose husband Mark was in the mounted field, dispensed liberal amounts of liquids and confectionery before huntsman Keith McCall took an 11 couple mixed pack, Keith McCall, Huntsman going over a good hedge with the assisted by whippers-in Andrew Philips and Tynan Armagh hounds.

Philip Singleton, to the first draw, while a fifteen Johnny Henry was whipper-in from 1959 then huntsman strong mounted field included joint masters Brian from 1962 and his sons, John jnr and Kenny now hunt Dougan, Wilson Faloon and Stephen Watson. the bitches and the doghounds respectively, sharing the The first draw, in Johnston’s off Salter’s Grange Road, field master’s duties on the same alternate basis. proved blank presaging a move into Mills’s quarry. Here, Two whippers-in, Barry Finnegan and Brian Black, are David Armstrong suffered a bad fall, sustaining hip and currently hors de combat and on crutches, so John pelvic injuries which required the attendance of Fire, Henry’s son, Evan(15) was whipping in today, it was to Police and Ambulance Personnel to secure his eventual Kenny with a 14½ couple dog hound pack where Evan removal to hospital. David was lucky that among the joined Johnny Clarke and Thomas Tuite in turning mounted field were Catherine Donnan a local GP and her hounds to his uncle. daughter Hannah, who is a medical student, while Keeping a very close eye on events throughout the Hilary Thompson who was following by car is a nurse. day was Johnny Henry who was motorised with former A move to Boland’s saw hounds work very hard in MFH Jan Farrell, while a seventy strong mounted field, poor scenting conditions as they drew towards the main including joint masters Andrew Boyd, Richard Trimble, A29, Moy to Armagh Road. This was a bright, cool day Pat Dillon and Norman Williamson was field mastered with some wind and hounds were certainly pushed to

by John Henry Jnr. make anything of it as they moved on to Annacramph A bright, sunny even ‘warmish’ day seemed to do Road. Hounds then drew McCartan’s where they put a very little for scent and the first draw, at O’Loughlin’s, fox afoot and hunted him right around McCartan’s proved blank.Kenny Henry then crossed into Madden’s before he went to ground after a brisk hunt. Keith where hounds put their first fox afoot to produce a short, McCall returned to Boland’s where another fox gave a sharp hunt before this fox went to ground in Phil Daly’s. short hunt in faint scenting conditions before it, too, was A series of draws around Ballymaglesson Stud Farm, lost.Scott’s proved blank as did Harry Clogher’s but at managed by Edward Cawley, then into Rowanstown Armstrong’s another fox gave a short hunt before it and on as far as Murphy’s all proved blank. crossed into Clogher’s and went to ground.

Hounds then put their second fox afoot at At Kyle, George’s the hedges had been impressively Wearingstown. Despite the seemingly average scenting cut, just for this meet, but with scent now having conditions hound hunted very well, though we car seemingly completely evaporated this draw, too, proved followers could hear no music. Kenny Henry later blank.

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A picture of timeless elegance Peter Newell with the Meath Foxhounds!

Catherine Donnan, when she pulled off to attend to the injured David Armstrong, had invited everyone back to her home for a belated stirrup-cup at the end of the day and this kind offer was now availed of.

Newry Harriers The Newry Harriers’ meet at Fourtowns, outside Loughbrickland, Co Down, opened in bright but cold

weather which brought us sleet before the day was over.

Huntsman Mr Mark McIlroy, with his two amateur whippers-in Ian Bryson and Ryan Carville, moved off sharply leading a twenty strong mounted field, under field master Mrs Uel McKee, to the first draw off Tullymore Road.

At McComb’s Bog a fox went afoot immediately to give a short, but brisk, hunt which some latecomers Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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West down beagles (l-r) Dorothy Allen (Hon Sec), Claire Boyce (Whipper In) and her brother James Gibson, Huntsman. missed out on completely. This hunt had warmed Tullyorior, also saw the completion of Wesley Wood’s everyone up but it soon ended with the fox going to twenty-five years in the mastership (twenty-one of them ground. as huntsman) as well as my last (and nineteenth) visit to Mark McIlroy moved on to John Shannon’s but it was a Hunt this season. blank and he met the same result when he returned to Hounds are now hunted by James Gibson, with his McComb’s with no better luck in a series of draws across sister Clare Boyce and Dorothy Allen whipping-in to John McGaw’s. A move across Tullymore Road to him and today James had on a 10 couple mixed pack Graham Bryson’s saw no better outcome and there was which had its first draw on the upper part of Circular also no one at home at Whinney Bank.

Road.

The weather now sharply, but happily briefly, With bright dry weather, which later showed some deteriorated with a strong flurry of sleet blowing right cold wind, scent appeared to be at something of a across our faces in the strong wind. As John Jamison, one premium and experienced followers, such as David Weir of the car followers, said: “It looked as if someone was and Billy McCabe did not wander far for the rest of the spreading lime.” Mark McIlroy continued to draw more day, which was largely spent on Danny McArdle’s land. land belonging to John McGaw but here, too, he was out Farmers were certainly making the most of the lasting of luck. mild, dry weather and a lot of slurry was adding to the Once the sleet abated the huntsman moved on to land existing weather conditions in making things hard for belonging to Harry Thompson, who was field master for the hounds while several tractors provided further some twenty seasons, drawing steadily across to the distractions.

Hunt’s point to point course.

After several unsuccessful draws across McArdle’s a Roy Taylor’s land, at Taylorstown, produced hounds’ brace went suddenly afoot, seen by Billy McCabe, in a second customer of the day which presaged a fast hunt good grass field off Circular Road. into Ian Copeland’s then back across Tullymore Road Hounds were very quickly on terms with one hare and into Shannon’s. Here hounds forded the river in and hunted in good voice towards Dronehill Road good voice, albeit sporadically, then went right through before swinging right towards the distant Corbett Lake.

Dessie Cameron’s before swinging back across the river They were well into their stride when scent appeared, into Harry Thompson’s. suddenly, to fade completely.

Hounds continued back across Ian Copeland’s then James Gibson worked hard with hounds swinging Roy Taylor’s before this hunt ended when they lost their backwards and forwards across McArdle’s, occasionally pilot. Home was then blown in late afternoon with providing some hound music which invariably died everyone deciding to box up before the weather closed away after a short time. in again making the drive home something of a lottery.

Hares seemed to be as scarce as scent but the Scent had been, at best, patchy and hounds did well to huntsman persevered until very late afternoon before make anything of their two foxes. finally blowing for Home to bring the season to an end on this, the last day in March.

West Down Beagles The season is over, the year is exactly one quarter gone The West Down Beagles’ last meet of the season, at and we are already looking forward to the new season.

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From Derek Fanning’s diary

Helter-Skelter In Pursuit Of Reynard

Niall Molloy from Tynagh, Galway gets to grips with an early fence.

S

aturday 29th October 2011 was a day of trepidation for me. Some of us feel trepidation when we are about to go into the operating theatre for an operation, or when we are attending an interview for a job, or sitting an exam. My trepidation arose because I was hunting with the Ormond Foxhounds. People who know me will immediately wonder about this statement because I have hunted with the Ormonds for about two decades and know this hunt’s countryside extremely well. At one stage indeed I used to think of the Ormonds as a second family! However, this was my first hunt in a very long time because on 23rd June 2010 while rock climbing in the Galty Mountains near Cahir I had slipped and fallen several metres down a cliff. When I came to a stop precariously perched above another cliff I saw that my lower right leg was broken. We called the rescue service and I was airlifted from the cliff-face by a helicopter. The rescue service were wonderful and a couple of them visited me on two occasions afterwards when I was recovering in hospital.

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rock climbing but carry on with hillwalking. I also decided to carry on with horse riding, but I wasn’t sure about fox hunting. As I contemplated it, fox hunting suddenly took on the aura of a fatal attraction: I was hugely drawn to it but it’s a dangerous pastime and it could lead to further injury. As I write this a young woman from my area is recovering from a really bad fall during a local drag hunt, during which she broke seven bones at the top of her neck. Thankfully, she is on the road to recovery. All of us who hunt are familiar with these risks but we carry on with our pastime because it is such great fun and it means so much to us.

The Hunt on the 29th October was in Ballingarry, a charming village just a few miles from Birr which has a famous pub called The Glue Pot with its friendly staff (some great sessions have been enjoyed by yours truly in The Glue Pot over the years) and, as I downed a couple of whiskeys, I hoped that my hireling would be a good horse. Alas, it was not to be! This seven year old grey gelding was a giant at 17 hands and two inches but his mouth was poor (requiring a restraining bit) and his jumping was a really unpleasant experience requiring all my strength and skill to negotiate the obstacles. At the end of a narrow brambly lane he wouldn’t jump a pallet no matter what I did. His feet got tangled in the pallet, he fell over on his side and I fell into the mud. The

brambles had snagged my face and ear and I was bleeding. I remounted using my drop stirrup. The others in the field waited patiently. I waved them on. When the last horse had jumped I cantered into the obstacle and this time the horse got over, but very awkwardly. There were six more jumps and he was better at these but it was not a happy experience.

A fox left a covert at one o’clock, some thought it was a hare. I looked and saw by its ears that it couldn’t be a hare, then I realised what it was - a tail-less fox. The pack pursued for a few minutes but lost the scent. I was Colm Cleary from Dromoyle, Birr at the gallop. relieved because the last thing I and we moved on, jumping over a post and rail towards wanted was a good hunt! When we reached tarmac I the second covert (a couple of people came a cropper at said farewell to the others and trotted back to the post and rail) which is a grove of deciduous trees on Ballingarry. I got back to the truck at two o’clock and the far side of a boggy drain. We didn’t have to cross this enjoyed another whiskey in The Glue Pot whose friendly drain because the hounds drew a blank again. We moved owner told me that he lost an eye in a car accident in on to a bog and here at 2.30 the hounds at last found a 1974. scent and opened up beautifully showing a great display of energy. They pursued for a few fields until they lost The test ride the quarry’s scent at a stone wall. We couldn’t go any A few days later, I was in Flowerhill Equestrian Centre further than this wall as the land hadn’t been canvassed, near Portumna trying out another horse. Oliver, the so the huntsman blew the hounds to him and moved on owner of the centre, said a horse called Moyroe might be to the next covert. I retired at this stage (at 3:15 pm) and just the ticket. I examined Moyroe. He was a chestnut hacked back to the meet with Alfie Mooney, a dairy / animal standing at 16 hands three inches with a large beef farmer from the Borrisokane area. Alfie had a 19 bone structure. We saddled him up and took him out for year old horse called Trigger which he had been hunting a test ride. I discovered that the horse pulled somewhat for 12 years. He very kindly reversed my trailer for me and tested your arms and fingers, but this was as this was a skill I hadn’t acquired yet! manageable. We jumped seven obstacles including a Saturday 12th November arrived and so to Roscrea drop-jump and the horse was fine; indeed, he was very where we were welcomed by Ken Connors and his good and I felt confident about the next hunt in a couple family (whose daughter Linda is a regular participant in of days. the hunt). The Connors’ farm is a few miles from Roscrea This was in the village of Ardcroney, not far from and Ken has built a large number of jumps here, Nenagh, on the 5th November, and I rose early to collect including a dodgy-looking thing which is broad and has Moyroe. A German woman helped me tack up the horse a hole that you could end up falling into. Luckily, in the centre and she told me that she wasn’t brave Moyroe jumped magnificently today so he cleared this enough to hunt but she enjoyed dressage. I reached obstacle very well. A fox was soon found in a covert on Ardcroney with just a few minutes to spare. About 25 the Connors’ land and for a while things sped up and people had turned out including Oliver Ryan-Purcell became helter-skelter - this resulted in us going too and his wife Dorothy. Oliver had been the Huntsman quickly through a woodland which had narrow, difficult with the North Tipperary Hunt for five seasons until to see drains. Michael’s horse didn’t see one of these and either last season or the season before, and he told me he came a cropper. It could have been a nasty fall but was going to hunt with the Ormonds quite a bit this year. Michael was fine, if a little bit muddy. At 3 o’clock we left It was a beautifully sunny day and a couple of people in Connors and rode by tarmac to the next covert which the hunt were wearing sunglasses. The Ormond was owned by the Kenny family in Clyduff. This area Huntsman Denis O’Sullivan had unboxed his hounds at included a few very large stubble fields which were the nearby sandpit (because of the dangerous road) and great fun to gallop across and a large wood of conifer we rode down to him. The hounds drew a blank here trees. The hounds found here again and pushed Reynard Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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across the road into another large woodland where they hunted for a while until Denis blew them off the quarry as it was getting late. On the way back we rode over some of the obstacles in the Connors, which included some good-sized fences and which Moyroe took splendidly. It was 4:30 pm when this excellent day came to a close.

Nervous as we knew what was in store On Saturday 19th November we were nervous waking up this morning because we knew what was in store for us: the double banks of Clonakenny. We only jumped four today but, believe me, that was enough! And some wished there hadn’t been any. Michael Costigan from the Golden Vales Hunt Sarah Ryan from Thurles is nicely over. came out to see us off and kindly Then on Saturday 26th of November I arrived at the allowed us at the end of the day to wash our horses in meet, the Mill House on the Birr / Roscrea Road, at 11.30. the stream at the back of his house.

The day was only two minutes old when we jumped A hot port, a few hellos and then it was time to fetch my ten obstacles on a lane-way and sank deeply into boggy saddle and place it on Moyroe who was kicking his left ground in a wood. At about one o’clock we came across rear leg in excitement. This kicking stopped the moment the first double bank and a crowd of about 30 people we started riding. Moyroe is not a kicker, in other words, gathered to encourage us! By the time it was my turn the he doesn’t lash out at other horses. There were 66 horses bank was looking very muddy and slippery but Moyroe out today, which was an unusually high number took it very well, carefully edging his way down from including several visitors from Yorkshire, a woman from the bank, thinking about it and then leaping it. After Dublin and a few from the North Tipperary Hunt. After clearing this obstacle there were a lot of laughing and half an hour the jumping started which included a five relieved faces, including the four Dutch, one Swedish bar gate (perched at an angle) which my horse took very woman, Pia and one Italian, Stefan, from Milan - all of well clearing it by a foot (according to an observer).

There was a bit more road work, we crossed the river these were hiring horses from Flowerhill.

It had been raining very heavily for the previous 24 again and turned right into a forestry. There was plenty hours and the ground was very wet and the streams of galloping and jumping along this lane and I was put swollen. The ground in the green fields was harder to the pin of my collar to keep my horse in order, a going than usual because of the heavy rain and I’m sure demanding workout on biceps and fingers. According to Denis the hounds began hunting during this period, but the horses were very tired that evening.

The fourth double-bank was the hardest of all with a we couldn’t hear them. Indeed, the scent had been very three foot wall and a narrow enough, slippery bank. poor since the commencement of the season as it had Moyroe once again took it very well, although I just about been too mild for decent scent to occur.

In the woodland plans came asunder because a bridge held on upon landing. I nearly fell off a second time towards the end of the day, which could have been nasty collapsed and horse and Tadhg O’Leary fell into the because we were cantering down a narrow lane with river. We had to turn back and rode across the main road rocks on the ground. It was so mild that there was no and through Gloster. We rode over Michael and Clare’s scent till about 3:30 / 4:00 o’clock when the temperature land and there was plenty of jumping here - some of dropped a little and the hounds put up a fox in David these hunt-jumps were a bit tricky and a horse caught his Hasting’s land. The Dutch were excited to see this and legs in wire at one of them. We freed him and soon they told me their usual pastime is Drag Hunting in afterwards Clare’s sister suffered a bad fall, on the road, Holland. It was 5: 00 o’clock when we finished the day knocking herself out. An ambulance was called and she was taken to hospital. She recovered consciousness, was and a dense fog had descended upon the land.

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released from hospital that night and was fine. I didn’t see the fall but nearly fell on a couple of occasions myself. We enjoyed a beautiful ride through two large woods in the evening gloaming and reached The Mill House at five. That evening we enjoyed a social occasion in the pub, and when I left for home at 1am the party was still going strong!

A friendly bunch On 7th of January, I set out for Green Door (the famous meet near Killimor which should be called Green Drain!)

I was glad to see that the East Galway Hunt was still a very friendly bunch, and it was two years since I was last out with them. They all remembered my name but unfortunately I couldn’t remember some of theirs.

Septuagenarian Tom Fahey is, I think, the Chairman of the club and he bought me a coffee in Duffy’s Pub in Killimor. A really stupid programme (wrestling - the fake stuff) was showing on the very large TV screen in the pub.

About 30 riders were out today and the obstacles were mostly drains, about 20 of them. At one of them a horse stumbled and the young rider was cast onto the ground over the head of the horse - the drain had been deceptive in that it had looked easier than it was. At another obstacle, while jumping through a hedge, wire was

unseen and the horse began to buck enormously, dramatically throwing off the rider - such a fall could easily result in injury but this rider was fine. The final drain of the day was the most exhilarating and entailed a steep drop down a muddy, stone-strewn bank into water that reached the horses’ bellies and then up a slippery grassy bank. One horse took this obstacle at a speed which was potentially dangerous but both horse and rider emerged unscathed. Moyroe negotiated it extremely well and was his usual sure-footed self. As I cantered on I shouted back that the drain was ok and not as bad as it looked. Unfortunately, the next rider had a fall, her horse’s head striking a rock on the far bank. She was somersaulted off the animal and covered from head to toe in muck and wet. Her mount had an unpleasantlooking gash on his head but it was just a superficial wound.

The hounds hunted extremely well on one fox for half an hour chasing it from one large gorse covert adjacent to some very muddy ground (the ground was very wet after a lot of rain in previous days) to another considerably smaller gorse covert a couple of miles away. By the time we reached the second covert we had been through the enormous drain and the huntsman’s horse was cut in the rear fetlock - the cut looked unpleasant and at 3.30 we headed for home.

MAGEE PERSONAL TAILORING

At Alan Espey 33 High Street Newtownards Tel: 028 9181 4789.

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Secretary/PRO: NOEL CARR, Teelin Road, Carrick, Co. Donegal. Tel/Fax 074 9730300. email: dgl1@indigo.ie

Doctors differ – wild salmon die s the salmon and seatrout angling season enters it’s summer phase many rivers report a reasonably good recovery of spring fish albeit from a very low base. Overall, the news is good as members see the earlier spring fish have shown up in better numbers in our rivers after a long absence despite the very dry April and May.

A

It is good to see nature triumph over the bureaucracy of reports and state mismanagement but it would be foolhardy to think that our wild fish will always survive the freshwater and sea threats and keep coming back to spawn. All they need is ‘no man made interference’ and at the moment that is a very tall order with various Ministers planning to accommodate and impress fish farmers, mink farmers, hydro owners and as always commercial netsmen, In summary, FISSTA have their administrative work load increased to stave off the threats to our wild fish now and will be highlighting them at the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation conference in Edinburgh this month.

The main areas of importance this summer are: Netting – end by lobbying both north and south as more extensions are permitted and draftnetting in a mixed stock fishery is continued in Castlemaine; Stop the fish farms being located off shore – onshore means we can control pollution and protect salmonid against sealice; End hydros interfering with migrating smolts from all rivers – another new hydro granted with the loss of salmon and seatrout habitat – appeal to Bord Pleanala; New Minister O’ Dowd takes over responsibility for our wild fish – FISSTA must convince him to act now to protect them against all threats; DCAL Minister Ui Chuilleann dropped in to see the No Salmon Nets committee Consultation document published – NSN to advise all on their submission; 102

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Fin farming Awareness Week was a great success – now to lobby hard against application for new 15,000 ton production in Galway Bay; RISE campaign under FACE Ireland to include FISSTA’s opposition to fish farming; Defend angling rights on salmon waters – Gweebarra case to come to court this summer.

Regarding the massive fish farm planned for Galway Bay, our last line of defence for this and other salmon habitats are the EU Habitats Directive and we hope to use in Brussels the various scientific research available to back up our claims in this regard when we get sight of the Environmental Impact Statement by Bord Iascaigh Mhara. As anglers, we depend on the state to protect what the state owns and manages, but when another state body decides to damage salmon stocks for the good of a few foreign fish farmers then we have the problem that was highlighted at our open meeting in Menlo Park Hotel on May 20th and now called Save Galway Bay. Unfortunately, there appears to be no cooperation or interaction between Inland Fisheries Ireland and BIM and the Marine Institute as they have conflicting briefs. For example, IFI have never been allowed on the very influential National Implementation Group despite many requests from FISSTA. Indeed, IFI CEO Dr Ciaran Byrne commented as far back as March 2011 that ‘as the statutory agency charged with the protection, conservation and management of Sea Trout, and as the major rationale for the control of sea lice is to protect the “outwardly migrating wild smolts” IFI’s absence from the National Implementation Group(NIG) is a serious oversight.’

To date, they still have not been given that invitation to join the think tank and that is why the wild fish of salmon and seatrout will not receive any consideration while this state body (who have the finest of scientists to advise) is absent.

So sadly, for every report we quote, and we quote the Gargan Forde one as it is the most recent, the fish farming lobby including BIM quote an opposing scientific view to such

an extent that our Dail Parliamentary Questions confirm that each Minister will use their own departments science advice to lead government to a conflicting position where the cabinet may have to eventually adjudicate and the sooner the better.

For example, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine Simon Coveney TD defends his new project on the basis of a scientific report from his Marine Institute dated 2011 whereas in response to a PQ from Emmet Stagg TD, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Fergus O’ Dowd TD cites a February 2012 publication that confirms sealice do significantly damage the wild Atlantic salmon and seatrout in the west Galway rivers. So Doctors of fish Biology differ and the wild salmon die, but in the meantime the debate rages on and scientists research works such as that Dr Greg Forde and Dr Paddy Gargan’s from Inland Fisheries Ireland will be cited as a major defence of our wild Atlantic salmon and seatrout at this crucial time. Dr Forde’s defence of his findings on Galway Bay FM was encouraging and is to be commended as one who stood up to clarify when confusion was thrown in to the debate during our most successful FISSTA Fin Fish Awareness Week which we held from 20th to 27th May. But the state interference in the management of the stocks rumbles on and has led to more anger from anglers as the draft regulations published as we go to print prove again that we are in big trouble as netting extensions now extend to 18th August and in some fisheries monofilament is reintroduced for reasons best known to the Inland Fisheries Ireland. FISSTA National Executive will be objecting vehemently to these new attacks on our fish within the 30 day consultation.

Message to FACE Ireland and RISE campaign FISSTA has campaigned to save our wild salmon stocks since our formation in 1984 and before under the Irish Salmon Trust. We have the support of over 90 registered angling clubs or bodies with a base of over 20,000 members. Many, who may not be anglers themselves, join our cause to support their local community based organisation that are environmentally committed to clean water in their river or lake, along with the conservation of our wild Atlantic salmon and seatrout.

The Wild Atlantic Salmon is migratory, born in the river of one nation and feeding in the coastal areas of several nations in the North Atlantic before returning to its home waters. During these travels from birth to it’s return it has to overcome daunting obstacles to its very survival from habitat degradation, pollution, predators, sea lice infection and diseases from ocean fin fish farming hunger from commercial plundering of its food chain, but most damaging of all are the man made legal and illegal interceptor nets which indiscriminately kill mixed stocks for different river catchments and indeed salmon bound for other countries.

Ireland as salmon friendly nation and the present Government must seize the initiative to revive the dwindling stocks by ending the licensing of: Commercial netting that kill fish on their way to spawn; Fin fish farm cages that pollute and infest migrating smolts; Escapes from fish farms degrade the habitat for wild to feed; Mink farming which decimates spawning salmon in their pools This policy damages the wild Atlantic salmon and stocks can no longer sustain a limited industry for fishermen who already have been compensated costing €35m in 2007.

Our sport of salmon and sea trout angling, is unique in that it is the only one which is regulated by the state under Inland Fisheries Ireland who sell us a licence and tell us if our river angling is open or closed for that year.

Even though angling only takes a small percentage of the The timeless beauty of Donegal Bay where fish farms alarmingly continue to appear.

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allocation of their harvestable quota, our sport is regulated by IFI in accordance with the list issued annually by the Standing Scientific Committee and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Inland Fisheries Ireland have also the brief to advise, monitor and manage the resource for the state and promote the sale of rod licenses @ €100 per angler season. The recreational value to the local angler in Ireland makes a vital contribution to the state for very little cost in it’s own right. However, an even more valuable benefit to the state is the value our clubs add to the angling tourism income. But IFI also monitor quotas, issue licenses and manage industrial netting to the commercial fishermen which conflicts with their conservation brief.

Time for action now - what must be done to protect Ireland’s salmon Ask Minister Coveney/Mcentee /Minister Rabbitte /O’Dowd as appropriate to protect migrating smolts being killed at hydros and from sealice emanating from Department licensed fish farms – no new fish farms in sea; end commercial draft and drift netting such as in Castlemaine; protect migrating salmon smolts being killed at hydros/farms – review dams under their responsibility.

SALSEA report findings - nothing new under the sun This column has kept salmon anglers updated on all the salmon research projects but the biggest and most influential one to date has just concluded. Following on from the completion of the five year SALSEA research programme into why the wild Atlantic salmon were dying at sea, it was agreed that FISSTA must respond accurately to guide the local angler and club regarding the outcome of the SALSEA MERGE and NASCO Salmon Summit conference in France where all was revealed and reviewed. The general feeling was that a definitive statement should address the local press reports in Ireland which were getting increasingly positive. It is a good time to analyse or decode the findings of the October La Rochelle and December London conferences of 2011 as a result of the many TV and radio programmes in which Dr Ken Whelan featured. The general feedback was hyped up as a good news story and the more the days go by the more SALSEA research findings are being proclaimed as the answer to all the salmon issues – but always conclude with more research needed.

FISSTA have attended all the relevant events over the past five years of research (from the NASCO meeting in USA to the Celtic Explorer leaving Killybegs in 2008 to the final conferences, etc) I have given our salmon conservation NGO viewpoint on a number of occasions but frequently ever manage to get a mention in comparison to what is being heralded as a SALSEA good news story.

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Edinburgh NASCO conference 5-8 June 2012. It is there we will meet all our accredited Non Government Observer colleagues and discuss all matters regarding SALSEA and the future of our wild Atlantic salmon stocks. The following is the view of our National Executive Council on SALSEA presented to all involved. Dr Ken Whelan did acknowledge our document publicly at the IFM seminar in April but failed to shed any new light on the project thus confirming our fears and concerns to an even higher degree.

FISSTA overview From the outset the SALSEA research project had tremendous ambitions that promised nothing less than an explanation of the reasons why salmon disappear at sea.

Having discovered those reasons, it was claimed, the project would be able to identify new and far-reaching management and conservation measures for Atlantic salmon. These aims explain why SALSEA gathered significant support from sponsors and from some NGOs even though our proposal to levy fin fish farmers was rejected out of hand. While not everyone at NASCO in Bar Harbor USA in 2007 embraced the project enthusiastically, it is fair to say that hopes were raised that SALSEA would eventually answer the many questions and suspicions on, for example, the effect of sea lice on migrating smolts and a better understanding of the driving forces that govern survival and growth at sea.

Scientific achievements – a layman’s observation After a five year research programme by a selected team of scientists, the data and results produced by SALSEA the findings appear to fall very short in comparison to the huge ambitions that were expressed. The general reaction of our scientific colleagues confirms that the scientific publications from SALSEA are surprisingly few and very poor in content even if we acknowledge that it often takes some time to publish in peer-refereed journals. While it would be wrong to condemn science research and the formation of a new database for future findings, SALSEA fails to confirm our very real suspicions that we observe from reading nature on our riverbank. “Reducing man’s impact on our salmon stocks may be the key to ensuring their survival,” is much too general a statement for such a five year programme. It is perhaps possible that something that is not apparent now will emerge later, but to date we have seen very little of practical use to us. The declaration that the iconic salmon species is now deemed to be pelagic was not news. It also means little in terms of conservation except to those who seek future funding from a much more lucrative budget. Indeed many of us expected to hear much more of what was found within the stomachs of the many fish examined with a view to assessing which forage species are most important to the migrating smolts and adult salmon respectively. Why, one wonders, was this not made a priority?

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Implications for Fishery Managers Because the results from SALSEA are so disappointing it is no surprise that the participants offer no useful management implications. As the Ocean Silver conference organisers concluded: ‘There is really nothing new under the sun.’ The fundamental message about improved conservation in rivers and the need to reduce or end harvesting at sea merely echoes the key recommendations of Orri Vigfusson and other independent conservationists for the last 15 years. SALSEA proposes few solutions for management and none on the bycatch figures which are based more on rumour than hard evidence. Some NGO colleagues believe it may have been inserted to divert our attention from the lack of useful and solid scientific findings.

Political implications The most damaging consequence of SALSEA is that it has allowed politicians to postpone any concrete actions within the fish farming industry for instance. It has provided an excuse for a continuation of the lack of proper regulation that currently allows the damaging outcomes of this ‘pollute to produce’ business instead of providing answers to it. The reasons for this huge void in the research were highlighted at the Ocean Silver conference where Dr Whelan entertained, but failed to convince the audience that the effects of sea lice on a fishery were insignificant. Yes, we know very well that a range of factors affect salmon at sea. The key question is if and how sea lice cause additional mortality. Given the high natural mortality at sea, the sealice impact might actually play a highly significant role because it is a man made factor that can be controlled. The general feeling is that SALSEA has probably made a small contribution to existing marine research on Atlantic salmon but that it is light-years from reaching the ambitious overall goals it had at the outset. As a fishery management NGO I have to say that its implications for management are trivial and that it brings nothing new to the table. Even more worrying is the fact that the SALSEA exercise has misled salmon conservation NGOs into believing that science can save Atlantic salmon. It now appears it never could and it will be politicians, decision makers and conservationists who will eventually do so.

Feeding v Natal Waters - the Greenland and Faroe Islands situation The performance of SALSEA should certainly make many salmon NGOs re-evaluate their positions and role in regard to science and the support of science in the conservation battle for salmon. It must be said regretfully that up to now those salmon NGOs who gave SALSEA their enthusiastic support have become nothing more than ‘useful’ hostages. They should take notice that SALSEA has already created one serious and unwelcome by-product. The fishermen of Greenland and the Faroe Islands have realised that the scientific work, such as it 106

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is, is concentrated on the feeding waters of the far North. These fishermen, whose representatives we all met in Greenland last June, addressed us directly in their opening statement in case we were in any doubt about their message. Many used to derive much of their income from salmon fishing and have felt for a considerable time that NASCO’s policies are far from fair and that there seems to be one set of rules for them and quite another for the major natal nations further south. Nothing is done, for example, about the mixed stock salmon fisheries that continue off the coasts of Norway, Scotland and Ireland.

Indeed, the head of EU delegation congratulated and welcomed the reopening of a new Irish mixed stock fishery in his opening statement in the presence of these fishermen last June in Greenland.

In addition, the northern fishermen now ask, why does the SALSEA exercise show no scientific interest in what happens to young salmon at the outset of their migratory journeys through the coastal waters of Norway, Scotland and Ireland? Indeed, what is the impact of industrial fishing?

Surely it is during their first weeks and months at sea that vulnerable smolts are most at danger but SALSEA does nothing to address these concerns.

Scientists need more research – what’s new?

At the conclusion of a long research programme to find out what is killing the salmon at sea the editorials in the press confirm our findings that those charged with the conservation and management of our salmon and sea-trout fisheries – that the 5 year costly SALSEA research project produced no ‘eureka moment’ and did nothing to help them. From the outset back in 2006, the project had tremendous ambitions that promised nothing less than an explanation of the reasons why salmon disappear at sea. Having discovered those reasons, it was claimed, the project would be able to identify new and farreaching management and conservation measures for salmon.

Hopes were raised that SALSEA would eventually answer the many questions and suspicions about, for example, the effect of sea-lice on migrating smolts and the forces that govern survival and growth at sea. Sadly, we are still left wondering about the level of impact of fish-farm cages infesting migrating smolts, not to mention escapes from cages.

The findings of the five-year research programme fall very short in comparison to the huge ambitions that were promised, and while we received some very impressive presentations from past and future scientific stars involving what were apparently new groundbreaking presentational digitised techniques, SALSEA does not seem to have brought us any nearer to a better understanding of the key ecological processes that govern the survival and growth of salmon at sea. Nor does it seem to have brought us any nearer to the possibility of forecasting future wild salmon production. While there is no hardcopy report yet, we were treated to what was an impressive scientific beauty parade of presentations. Readers

can judge for themselves by logging on at www.nasco.int/sas/pdf/Summit%20Presentations/ The scientific publications from SALSEA are surprisingly few and very poor, and to date we have seen very little of practical use to us. The declaration that the iconic salmon species is now deemed to be pelagic means little for conservation, except to those who seek future funding from a much more lucrative budget. Indeed many of us expected to hear much more of what was found within the stomachs of the many fish examined, with a view to assessing which forage species are most important to the migrating smolts and adult salmon, if only to prevent future overfishing. Why, one wonders, was this not made a priority?

The fundamental message about improved conservation in rivers and the need to reduce or end harvesting at sea merely echoes the key recommendations of Orri Vigfusson and other independent conservationists for the past 15 years.

The most damaging consequence of SALSEA is that it has allowed politicians to postpone any concrete action within the fish-farming industry – hence the immediate announcement last December of ten new fish-farming units, the magnitude of which Ireland has never seen before. The first application to be located in Galway Bay will create 500 jobs, according to the government, but experts of automated feeding techniques at such sea cages in Norway estimate that these figures should be divided by ten to give a more accurate figure, but the 15,000 tons will most definitely pollute and is to be located in Galway Bay. So, instead of providing clear answers, the SALSEA project has provided an excuse for a continuation of the lack of proper regulation that currently

allows the damaging outcome of this “pollute to produce” business to multiply.

Massive trout caught on Corrib - see it at Burke’s of Clonbur If you have not seen it yet it is worth logging on to the front page of the Irish Times of May 28th as it carried the story of the massive ferox brown trout caught on the Corrib by Welsh angler Ceri Jones. The weight was a staggering 23lb 12oz which was caught trolling with a roach deadbait and while it did not break the Irish record of William Mears who landed “the one” of 26lb 2oz in 1894 at Lough Ennell in Co Westmeath, it did break the record for Lough Corrib and is the largest trout caught in Ireland in 118 years. So, angling can still have the odd good day if we are lucky but you must get the local advice before you start. If you want to hire a boat or to get an introduction to the great fishing spots of Corrib call Brian at Ireland West Angling at 087 2509722 who is qualified as a Professional Angling Guide of Ireland.

Fine art helps fund FISSTA’s Youth Programme Salmon on the Glendun is the stunning painting by renowned artist John Moore, which was commissioned by Albert Titterington and the Great Game Fairs of Ireland. A limited edition print run of the painting has been produced and, with the painting, will be donated to FISSTA to be sold with ALL proceeds going to FISSTA’s youth programme. The one exception to this will be the specially remarqued and framed No. 1 print which Irish Country Sports and Country Life magazine is donating to an APGAII fund raising initiative.

Salmon on the Glendun by the renowned artist John Moore Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2011

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From Michael Martin

Lough Sheelin strikes back - but will lessons be learned elsewhere? essential tools for this but so also is catch and release and the benefits have been well proven on many fisheries, but especially in the US, where the rivers and lakes continue to provide superlative fishing despite a huge angling pressure

Priest or a digital camera?

Lough Sheelin is special in that it produces very large fish and there is a temptation for anglers to kill these specimens, but how much more valuable would such fish be when on the spawning redds? Maybe we should replace the priest for a digital camera and keep a photographic record of that cracking trout, rather than end up with just a dead fish in the bottom of the freezer.

This year we witnessed anglers sportingly releasing A fine Brownie that was photographed and safely returned. fantastic wild brown trout and thereby investing in the feel compelled to give a very warm future of everyone’s sport. Perhaps this is where stock fish congratulations to all those involved in the might come in as, on our own little lake, anglers are inclined to conservation and protection of that fantastic take a stockie if they want a fish to take home, whilst leaving and unique natural resource we have in the valuable wild fish to thrive. Having said that, with the incredible food supply on Sheelin the hatchery bred fish will Lough Sheelin. The Shannon Fisheries Board, soon become beautiful specimens themselves. More protection Inland Fisheries Ireland, Lough Sheelin is required for trout and there should be a ban on the sale of Trout Protection Association and the various wild brown trout in Ireland as they are vulnerable to council and government agencies have really commercial exploitation, which is a sin for such a valuable shown how to bring this Lough back to its resource. It was good to see a strong bailiff presence on Sheelin former glory, following many difficult years and also so reassuring to see the attitude of local anglers who of abuse through various pressures including appreciate what a fantastic fishery this is and the incredible potential of such a rich lough, anyone who has witnessed the pollution and exploitation. scale of the mayfly or buzzer hatches will understand.

The little angling club to which I belong, the Mallusk The lessons learned on Sheelin should be applied to our Angling Society, has been visiting the Lough for many years other wild fisheries, many of which are struggling at present. now, and we have persevered through the worst of conditions Now we have an opportunity to buy into the future of a unique when the water was completely green with algae blooms and fishery, to turn the page on a terrible chapter of Sheelin’s story. the air was heavy with the stench of pig slurry. But the We have a responsibility to protect and cherish this incredible combination of the warm welcome in the village of Finea and natural resource so lets appreciate what is a jewel in Ireland’s the fact that the lake is so beautiful and so incredibly rich in wild fisheries heritage; treat her and her specimen trout with wildlife, brings us down year after year. the dignity they deserve and create something of which Ireland Now that the recovery has taken place I would hope that can be truly proud! anglers will realise what a unique and special environment this is and do their bit in conserving and protecting the incredible stock of trout present. Angling correspondent Dennis Moss has written in the press about the decline of the various Irish limestone loughs and I wholeheartedly agree with him when he states that we must adopt an ethos of conservation rather than exploitation when we visit these fisheries. By all means we should be able to take the occasional fish for the pot, but releasing the rest will ensure a prolific breeding stock for the future.

There are many pressures on our fisheries including pollution, abstraction, siltation of spawning streams, invasive species and over enrichment from agricultural practices so now is the time to embrace initiatives that will protect our sport and our wild places for the future. Habitat improvement, Biodiversity can benefit greatly. reporting pollution, hatcheries where appropriate etc. are

I

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By Mark H.V. Corps

The Reluctant Salmon Fisherwoman N

ot long after we first met, Elaine did the standard new girlfriend thing and showed interest in some of my pastimes. As I taught Outdoor pursuits these were numerous and variable. Climbing and skiing, Elaine had done these before!

Windsurfing, Elaine trashed some of my kit.

Sailing all was fine. I offered her the opportunity to come on a pheasant shoot: a problem as Elaine was a vegetarian (that was never going to last) She eventually agreed to come. Afterwards, although not totally convinced, she admitted enjoying watching my spaniel work. Next on the list was fishing. She decided to see where I went and what it was about. To see what I was ‘wasting my time doing’ (her words not mine). After a few visits to a number of differing fisheries Elaine had caught trout, but all it did was confirm her suspicions about fisher folk.

Elaine just did not get it, however she figured she had sized up fishermen as ‘mostly harmless.’ She was not anti fishing; it kept me entertained, out of her hair and she enjoyed eating one of my occasional victims.

She was one of those strange veggies whose maxim was meat is murder but fish is justifiable homicide, so I was left to it.

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In his spare time, my father produces life sized wooden models of fish, significant trophy fish, for friends and family. I have several on the wall including my first salmon and second sea trout, the first one had been on the small side. Elaine took a liking to these and commented she would also like a model of her first salmon on the wall. To try to get Elaine a trophy for the wall, I first took her to fish Lough Furnace, the lower lough of the Burrishool fishery in Co. Mayo. The target was to be grilse and to ensure no marital arguments I hired a ghillie or in my mind a ‘referee.’

Lough Furnace was full of fish, so full they were being squeezed out of the lough on a regular basis. But as they can be on this fishery, although the fish were active they showed no interest in the flies. Elaine fished hard all morning with no joy. The afternoon was, however, a different story. With the soporific effects of lunch, the day being warm and dry, plus the gentle rocking motion of the boat, the factors all colluded with the result Elaine slept in the bottom of the boat. This is her modus operandi in boats.

Mid afternoon, I finally hooked a small grilse. Elaine awoke and watched my would be victim careering around for five minutes or so, before I was given the opportunity to practise long distance catch and release.

Elaine laughed, a little cruel I felt and within five minutes went back to sleep. She claimed to have enjoyed the day though her final request to the ghillie was ‘row me to the shops .... now!’

A little guile and cunning

I had my fish for the day.

Over the next couple of years, several offers of visits to other fisheries were carefully and politely rejected. If I wanted Elaine to get back onto the bank of a salmon fishery I would have to use a little guile and cunning. Too complicated.

I simply bribed her with a day’s fishing for a day of pampering. I made a general offer, Elaine called my bluff and accepted, so I had to organise something. The fishery would have to give Elaine a good chance of a fish and the accommodation and food must be out of the top draw, with quality pampering available.

Several venues sprang to mind and after some consideration I booked a weekend at Mount Falcon Country House Hotel. The trip was planned for early September as in most years it guarantees the rivers will be well stocked with fish.

Mount Falcon Fishery is located two miles upstream from the Moy’s tidal waters. The season runs from 1st February to 31st September. In a normal year, the best months for springers are April and May, with the bulk of grilse and summer fish being caught from July to the end of the season. Mount Falcon’s average is 710 salmon for the last five years. Mount Falcon started as a private house. It was conceived in 1872 when Utred Knox commissioned architect James Fuller, who also designed Ashford Castle, Kylemore Abbey and Farmleigh House, to construct for him and his new bride ‘a castle.’ It was

built in the grounds of a 2,200 acre estate on the west bank of the River Moy, completed in 1876. In 1932 the estate was taken over by Major and Constance Aldridge who ran it as one of the finest shooting and fishing lodges in Ireland. The jewel in the crown of the estate was the fishing on the Moy. Saturday dawned. Elaine and I would fish together on the bait water as the fishery allows a variety of angling methods. Elaine can cast a fly, but I thought the worm would give her the better chance of a fish. The day dawned dry and warm, unusual for late September. I tackled up two rods and then we were transported to the east bank to fish the Boathole. I prefer fly fishing but have a great respect for and enjoy fishing the trotted worm. The method favoured on the Moy was new to me and could not in any way be seen as subtle; a large float, beneath which a ‘bouncing betty’ allows the baited size

The baited size 8 hook to be trundled down the pool.

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One of Elaine’s tags was used for the second fish.

8 hook to be trundled down the pool. As opposed to running it down the pool one usually walks the pool at the rate of flow. Reel in at the bottom of the pool and then walk back up to the top of the pool to cast again.

The Moy was high but clear, with occasional fish showing, always good for boosting moral. It was late morning before I had a surge of adrenaline. Mid stream the float stopped, dipped then vanished. Ten minutes later, I netted a lovely fresh grilse of 4½ lbs. The problem with this worming technique is that it has a lot of slack in the system that gives the salmon plenty of time to swallow the bait. As such fish are often deep hooked, as was mine. Quickly dispatched, photographed then tagged, I had my fish for the day and was demoted to the role of chief ghillie.

As Elaine’s ghillie it required me to undo knots, retie hooks and importantly rebait worms. Not really a problem as the plan had always been for Elaine to get a fish not me. Losing a set of tackle in some underwater obstacle, Elaine handed me her rod to renew the terminal tackle and took mine. I retackled and put on another worm. By this time Elaine had fished through the pool and was wandering back up, so I cast her rod for her.

Standing holding her rod at a jaunty angle whilst waiting for her to reach me, I noticed the float twitch. A Pavlovian conditioned reflex took over, and without thinking - I should have just waited and handed over the rod - I struck. A second fish was hooked.

Elaine was peeved and refused to take the rod. This was a smaller 112

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fish, only lightly hooked and though quickly played when trying to return it, it would not recover. After fifteen minutes nursing the fish I had to introduce it to the priest. As, during September one can only take one fish a day. I had already had a fish, so it had to be tagged with one of Elaine’s tags.

Lunch was a relaxed affair, then a change of scenery with a move to Cunningham’s pool, where to abide by the regulations, worms were put away and spinning took over, with a single barbless hook. Elaine was now doing all the fishing while I wandered around trying to make helpful suggestions. Elaine asked me to again show her how to fish the spinner and of course I instantly hooked a fish. She again refused the rod and muttered as she wandered off to get the net. This third fish was some 8 lbs and though slightly coloured, when released swam off strongly.

Three fish would usually have gone down as a red letter day. This was however tainted as my aim had Quickly released, it swam off strongly.

been to get Elaine a fish and Elaine was miffed that I had three.

It was clear who the intruder was in this scenario On Sunday, after breakfast, I left Elaine to enjoy her part of the deal, her treat. She happily wandered off to undergo the ‘treatments.’ I put up two fly rods and headed for my own treat, a day fishing the famous Wall pool. Walking up stream towards the pool I saw an enormous splash. If this was a salmon, then it was huge.

A hundred metres closer and a second crash. I started to suspect a large fish was in trouble. Third time and I saw the culprit causing all the commotion, a large dog otter.

It also saw me and instead of vanishing in a trail of bubbles, traditional if one reads Henry Williamson’s Tarka the Otter, it swam toward me to have a good look.

It was clear who the intruder was in this scenario.

High clear water and I started with an intermediate line and a size 12 Cascade, using a 9ft 6in Hardy Swift and AFTM 7 line. Though a single hander I could cover the pool as The Wall pool is several hundred metres in length but only 30 to 40 meters wide. I fished down it twice in the morning. I might have fished it three times but spent a large amount of time covering a fresh fish that kept showing at the top of the pool. Mid morning, I gave an aluminium bodied Collie Dog a swim, also

ignored by the fish showing continually the length of the pool. I convinced myself the intermediate line was the best bet. Mid afternoon, fishing a Tara, I approached the area were I’d introduced myself to the dog otter. During the day the wind had been building and was now blowing strongly up stream, it was getting hard to cast. Thinking about the wind and not the fly, I was suddenly aware the line was running. Not spectacular but certainly a dogged fight, this fish shook its head like a terrier killing a rat. No doubt a proverbial bar of silver in July, but this fish was now wearing tartan. Perfectly hooked in the scissors it swam off strongly on release.

The trip had not been planned as a fishing weekend for me. I had still taken four fish. Relaxed and happy, I felt no need to flog the water into foam and fish on into the dark. So I called it a day and returned to see how Elaine’s was getting on. I must admit it was obvious this had been the better part of the weekend for Elaine, with both of us extremely happy, a salmon on fly for me and pampering for Elaine. I think she would only have enjoyed it more if she had been able to organise a little retail therapy. So maybe this year will be the year Elaine gets her salmon. She is happy to give it another go, as long as the same deal applies. I’m not sure if Elaine will ever develop into a salmon fisher, but then again I am not sure I would want her to.

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By Andrew Griffiths

Sweating the small stuff T

he bizarre weather which greeted the start of the trout season this year not only felt like high summer had arrived in April, but had the river fishing as though we had skipped spring and landed deep in the balmy days too. Often the fish were focused on the smallest of midge which would hatch sporadically, provoking a sudden flurry of feeding activity. But, during the waits in between, things could become very quiet indeed. On a small, rain fed river such as the one I fish, insect life is scarce. It is as though the fish go into some kind of stasis, so as not to waste energy when there is so little food to be gained.

Over the last few years I’ve developed a strategy for dealing with the midge hatch, largely through trial and error. I knew that the flies they were taking were small they must be, because I couldn’t see them. When they were taking from the surface, I found that a Griffith Gnat #18 to #22 seemed to do the trick, and cut down underneath the fly can be even more effective. It wasn’t guaranteed to catch, but there was a good chance of it doing so. Then a couple of seasons ago, I tied up a reverse parachute emerger, with the body tied to suggest a pupal case, and again tied small. This fly seemed to clear up most of what the Griffith Gnat left behind. Next came a gold or copper bead head tied on a #20 or #22, with that same pupal case material, which seemed to make for a passable ascending pupa when the fish couldn’t be coaxed to the surface. These three flies have caught fish consistently for me.

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There is one situation though that until recently has had me completely defeated. I knew the fish were feeding on something, that much was obvious. There would be long periods of stillness on the slower water, such as that often found on a deeper river bend, but then there would be small patches of water that looked as though they had suddenly gone on to simmer. These small, simmering patches would appear for a few seconds each over a period of a few minutes, then die down for a long period of stillness again.

I was pretty sure the trout were feeding on midge at some stage of their cycle, but they steadfastly refused everything I put over them until I felt like screaming with frustration. Well, at the very least I felt like spearing them with my rod tip out of spite, as sometimes they were that close.

Tiny midge pupa This was one problem I was determined to solve this year. I’ve taken to carrying a small piece of mesh netting material with which to sample the river, small enough to fit into the pocket of a fishing vest. One blazing hot day in April - yes, you did read that correctly - with the water crystal clear, the fish began to feed in this manner. I sampled the river just downstream. I held my net across the flow for a couple of minutes, and an examination of my catch revealed a number of tiny midge pupa that had been just beneath the surface, precisely half in and half out of the pupal case. (A couple of weeks of sampling revealed them to be predominantly brown, or olive to yellow in colour.) The fish must have been taking the midge pupa just as they were attaching to the surface

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film, neither pupa, or yet emerger, I needed something in between to suggest this transition phase.

Back at the vice, I tied up a small spider on a #22, with that half in / half out of the pupa feature which I suspect is a trigger, and a sparse hackle from the neck of a jackdaw. The aim was to fish the spider just in or beneath the surface. For a pupal case, I’ve been using the shredded backing of my old carpet, which has been rucked up at the join by my salukis playing pouncing games in my living room. The flies subsequently tied have proven to be devastatingly effective, and after sampling with the net, I now fully realised why: to look at, this material is practically indistinguishable from the real thing. This recycling of material appeals to the traditionalist in me. I’m not against using modern materials in fly tying, but just as the fur and feather used in the old patterns were usually a by-product of an animal killed for other purposes, I would rather use synthetic material that is a waste product of some other productive process than something that has been purposefully manufactured for the tying of flies. Well, it’s a point of view.

I tied up some of these spiders in different colours and tucked them away in my fly box. The next day dawned warm and sunny again, and out on the river it wasn’t long before the simmering patches began to occur.

Fishing flies this small requires fine tackle, but you need to be sensible about this. On this river, a trout of a pound is a once in a season event, and most are six to eight inches, so I feel fair to the fish by fishing a nine foot, 6X leader, with three feet or so of 7X tippet. But no one likes leaving a hook and line in an unexpectedly big fish’s mouth. It is a case of playing the odds and knowing your river.

flow. With immense satisfaction, I felt a slight pluck, lifted into it, and another monster was on. The first cast of this little spider had caught a fish that had eluded me for years. It caught three in that session, almost in as many minutes, and all to fish feeding in this manner. They must just be open mouthed and hoovering up the tiny pupa just beneath the surface, and the spider manages to smuggle itself in by default. I haven’t so far managed to Ascending pupa induce a take with it, the fish have to be feeding in this way, but when they are it is proving to be successful. And when they are not showing in these conditions, and the weighted pupa isn’t picking anything up, I suspect they are not feeding at all; it must take a lot of midge pupa to make the effort worthwhile, and the fish are just sitting it out, waiting for the next hatch to trigger their activity.

I think I now have the midge hatch Late stage midge pupa on my river covered in terms of fly profile, it is just a case of matching size and colour. The bead head pupa for the ascending pupa beginning its journey, the reversed parachute for the early stage of emergence, and the Griffith Gnat for the late stage. Now the final piece in the jigsaw is the spider, tied half in and half out of its case, which has just made its way to the surface to end its journey to the outside world. As for that pupa material, if you lack the Early stage midge emerger necessary dedication to acquire three salukis and let them cavort around your living room for five years or until they totally trash your carpet, then it is maybe worth cutting a strip of plastic bag a couple of millimetres wide and trying that. You are looking for something that is translucent, so it will show something of the colour of the thread beneath, but that has a cased, ‘waxy’ appearance too.

It is worth persevering. It is a great feeling to finally solve a fly tying and Late stage midge emerger (Griffiths Gnat clipped down) fishing problem that has persisted for I felt a slight pluck years, there is nothing else quite like it.

I waited for the telltale simmer, then cast just upstream of it and drew the tiny spider back It is a game of which I for one will never tire, not least through. The only way to be sure of staying in contact because there is always more than one solution to any fly with the fly is to bring it back that bit quicker than the fishing challenge.

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By Simon Everett

BRINGING HOME THE WOODIES T

he wily wood pigeon is a major test of the air rifle hunter. They have sharp eyesight and an ability to blend in with the surroundings making them virtually invisible from the hunter below. Stalking them is not impossible, but very difficult and a hit and miss affair. For that reason they are a very sporting prospect for the air rifle hunter and a worthy quarry. I prefer to try to ambush them in the woods, rather than attempt to shoot them on the ground amongst decoys.

My friend Paul had recently acquired an Air Arms s410 and he was keen to sight it in properly and then get out into the field to christen it. I am lucky in that I have several large blocks of woodland, each in the region of 200 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 250 acres, surrounded by good farmland. One large field of winter rape has been ravaged by the grey horde over this hard winter. As we had come out of the winter and into the first vestiges of spring literally thousands of pigeons were using the woods to roost and dropping down onto the rape to feed. They were still flocking to it when Paul came to stay so it was the obvious choice of where to take him.

On the Friday when Paul arrived it was blowing a gale and not looking too conducive for successful 35 yard zeroing. We discussed a plan of action over some single malt and retired for an early start on the targets in

the morning. When we put the zeroing target in the pellet catcher the wind had dropped sufficiently to set the rifle up at 35 yards. I put up the table and rifle rest for Paul to get his scope set spot on. There was a bit of breeze, but by choosing his moments to shoot the groups stayed together and after just a dozen shots we were packing up, Paul confident his rifle was set in dead on.

As we approached the woods there were hundreds of pigeons leaving the trees and dropping in on the rape.

We had timed it just right to get into position while the pigeons were preoccupied filling their purple crops with the bright green leaves of the new growth on the rape.

The wind had increased and it was fairly whistling through the trees causing them to sway and branches to clatter. Every now and then twigs and even the odd branch came tumbling to earth having been broken off due to the wind. We had to find the trees the pigeons favoured in order to stand any chance at all.

We worked our way through towards the trees where we had seen the pigeons pouring out from as we arrived.

We were under some tall beech and sycamore trees on open woodland floor when we heard the whistle of wings overhead. A party of about 30 pigeons flew right over us and dropped into an old oak about 75 yards in front of us. We decided to split up, Paul going on for the main trees whilst I found a small stand of holly to stand within under some sycamores, sweet chestnut and another ancient oak. The holly gave me an ideal natural Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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hide as it was of the trailing type and I was able to pull some of the drooping branches apart and get right inside, completely out of view from above.

Through the branches, he drew a bead on one bird Paul made himself comfortable under some yew trees and rhododendron bushes that gave him a covered corridor from one stand of trees to another. He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to wait long for the next flight of grey backs to arrive. He told me that he had to crawl under the rhodies to get within range of where they had settled, then from a sitting position had managed to get a bead through the branches to one that was sitting in the clear. He put the crosshair on the head of the pigeon and timed his let off for when there was a lull in the wind. The rifle spat the pellet almost silently and it flew unerringly to its mark, whereupon the pigeon simply fell forward out of the tree and landed with a thump on the leaf mould below. The wind was causing the trees to make such a racket that the other pigeons didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even notice their comrade fall to the floor and they stayed huddled on their branches, beaks to the wind.

Paul reloaded and worked his way forward to a yew tree where he could stand up unseen and rest on the main trunk of the tree in front of him. He had his eye on a pigeon that was half hidden by a swaying branch. He had time his shot to coincide with when the branch swayed out of the way, providing a clear path for the pellet to strike its mark. He judged his moment but a sudden swirl of wind changed the pattern of the swaying branch and it stopped his pellet from going any further. Splinters of the branch exploded into the air and the sound of the pellet hitting the wood alerted the birds and they looked around for what the unusual sound had been. Paul remained totally still and the pigeons relaxed again after a while. Paul reloaded quietly, the joys of a PCP, it simply had to gently work the bolt. His second attempt was more fruitful and he added the second pigeon to his bag.

An estimated range of 40 yards

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Meanwhile, I had a small group drop in right on the limit of my range. There was one pigeon with an unobstructed path for me to shoot. It was a bit further than I would have liked, but by judging the range to the base of the tree it was sat in I estimated the range at 40 yards. I put the first mildot of my scope just above itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head and got my shot off. The pigeon crashed to the ground sending the rest flapping away in a hurry. I paced the distance to the bird had fallen and it was 48 paces. My pellet had gone clean through its neck though at the base of the skull. Sometimes you need luck on your side.

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The pigeons were landing in other trees and giving the ones around me a miss, so I decided to move and set up with the wind on my back and the birds looking at me.

There was another stand of holly around the base of a fallen chestnut, it made a perfect hide. No sooner had I get myself behind the big, red, coarse barked fallen trunk than a dozen pigeons settled no more than 20 yards from me. This was a formality, just put the crosshairs on the best presented bird and squeeze gently. I too had a brace of pigeons in the bag. I stayed put and not long afterwards another party of pigeons Now here are two in the bag. pitched in, to my left in an old oak. I picked the nearest flapping, but by the time I had got myself over to it the bird, which had its head obscured but I could see the pigeon had expired. A handful of pigeons between us in whole of its side. I picked my spot just under the elbow a couple of hours in those conditions was a worthwhile of the wing and let the pellet fly. The pigeon fell, effort and Paul was able to christen his new rifle too.

And another after a crawl.

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The handful between us was worthwhile.

AJ’s Angst ‘lets off steam’ with his frank opinions

After last issues Angst I had many comments that I was ‘going soft’ and that my column wasn’t ‘as good a read as normal!’ However I am not going to react to this by attacking all and sundry. I shall simply continue with my normal well balanced objective look at the world of Irish country sports! And with a new image – that of the last time, I will sport an increasingly white beard!

CONGRATULATIONS To our whole team for delivering a very successful ‘First Irish Game Fair of the Season’ at Ballywalter and to our hosts Lord & Lady Dunleath and their staff for having the estate looking in such fantastic condition.

I also thank the people who visited the fair, our exhibitors and our staff for leaving the estate virtually in the condition we found it.

CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to the team from Flavour magazine, especially sisters Emma Cowan and Kathy Jensen, for putting together a great fine food festival in the stable yard and the Ulster Scots group Risin’ Stour for so ably entertaining the ‘foodies’ who visited it. However, as people know, I always say ‘there is room for improvement’ so ladies we expect your Festival at Shanes will be really special.

CONGRATULATIONS to the NI Countryside Festival at Moira YES – I did say CONGRATULATIONS! Possibly faced

with falling into fourth place behind Shanes, Birr and Ballywalter the organisers appeared to pull out all the stops to mount a determined rebranding exercise and extensive PR and advertising campaign. The layout on the ground was good and of course they were blessed with good weather. I quite enjoyed the new layout and I spent a few enjoyable hours at the event on Saturday.

Most of the friction between us and these organisers has occurred because they appeared to want to tap into the successful branding and our registered trademarks ‘Irish Game Fair’ and ‘Irish Game & Country Fair’ rather than carving out a uniquely definitive brand and identity of their own.

Hopefully, they will persist with the new brand ‘NI Countryside Festival’ and this should help alleviate confusion between our events and lessen any tension.

Now just in case you thinking that I am going completely soft by lavishing praise on our ‘competitors’ I feel I should offer some constructive criticism. First, I felt that the PR for the event involved a lot of claims which did not appear to be manifested at the event. Was the event “Three Great Events One Giant Festival’? In my opinion it was not! The ‘Tea on the Titanic Festival’ appeared to have little to do with the Titanic except (horrible reverse pun) ‘to jump on board’ the Titanic theme and appeared to rather ‘founder’ in terms of attendance.

Having had strong man events at our fairs several years ago I was interested to see the ‘Finn McCool Festival.’ It was a reasonable event taking place in a separate small arena. OK, but in my opinion, a little short of its title! Regarding arena entertainment the organisers web site had trumpeted that they had the best arena entertainment i.e “The Main Arena displays and demonstrations at the National Country Fair are simply unrivalled at any show in Ireland.”

Well, in nearly three hours at the fair, I didn’t see a lot in any arena other than the strongman one. In the main arena I saw a rather moderate sheepdog & duck act and a rather good falconry act. In the BASC arena, I saw a guy doing a little flycasting. Now I might be biased but I think our main arena programmes would not only rival these but surpass them!

In my opinion the 2012 NI Countryside Festival was the normal Moira Fair with a welcome new name but Countrysports and Country Life Summer 2012

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the event appeared much as it has always been - a fairly good event, fairly well organised by organisers who make the most of an unpromising non traditional venue. Was it a good day out? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Yes it was and I and quite a few other people enjoyed it. But they still have a bit of work to do to grow it into what they appeared to be promoting.

I genuinely congratulate the organisers of the Moira event on their re-branding and other initiatives and I hope the organisers will stick with their new identity and grow the event by developing some of the new themes, which appeared a little aspirational rather than actual this year. I trust that their apparent determination to make the event different to our own is pursued and as such it can be complementary to ours.

My First BRICKBAT To the country sports enthusiasts (or should it be scum?) who stole our large yellow promotional banner from the wall at Ballywalter. I was rather attached to this banner as it had served us faithfully and been rebranded several times from its first iteration as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ballymena Agricultural Show & Countryside Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ballywalter Game Fair & Countryside Festival.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

This was taken on Sunday afternoon and while we have a description of the vandals we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the number of the car. I have ÂŁ500 here for information leading to the apprehension of these â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sportsmen.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

And finally my CONGRATULATIONS and THANKS to REAL countrysports enthusiasts To my neighbours and the very sporting Edgar family for putting on a very excellent display of vintage firearms and memorabilia and for Liz and Mark putting on a superb punt gunning display on the lake.

AND To John R Moore, the fine Cullybackey artist who has slaved over his canvases in producing two fine iconic paintings which encapsulate the ethos of the 2012 Great Game Fairs of Ireland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Salmon on the Glendun Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; andâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;The Massereene Hound.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; You can see both these and many other fine paintings on his stand in the Angling Village at Shanes Castle.

I hope to see you all at Shanes Castle our 50th Irish Game Fair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t promise that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see Finn McCool or be offered â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tea on the Titanicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; but it should be a good memorable fair with some excellent attractions!

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Willie Edgar International gundog handler, judge and trainer is now taking bookings for training all breeds of dogs both for competition and as shooting companions. Willie will also assist in sourcing suitable pups, trained and part trained dogs. At Stud Liver & White ESSD â&#x20AC;&#x201C; powerful hunting dog with a superb and rather unique pedigree.

Ballymena t Banbridge t Belfast t Carrickfergus Carrickferrg gus Downpatrick t Lisburn t Newtownards Newtownarrds d

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Dog Food also supplied.

All dogs trained the natural way.

Contact Willie on 07531 189101 or 028 (from ROI 048) 30839302

There are Irish country fairs and countrysports fairs … and then there are the

GREAT GAME FAIRS OF IRELAND

The Irish Game Fair our 50th Irish game fair

7th & 8th July 2012 Shanes Castle, Antrim www.irishgamefair.com

The Irish Game and Country Fair

25th & 26th August 2012 Birr Castle, Co Offaly www.irishgameandcountryfair.com

We invite you to see the difference…. in 2011 on www.fieldsportschannel.tv and www.dogandcountry.tv and in 2012 by visiting Ireland’s premier game and country fairs.

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